Colonial Switchel: Hydrate & Energize

Krysta

A refreshing historical beverage from colonial America, known for its ability to quench thirst and naturally replenish energy with simple ingredients like apple cider vinegar, a sweetener, and ginger.

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Total Time 10

Calories 80 kcal

Ingredients

4 cup water
0.5 cup apple cider vinegar
0.25 cup molasses or honey
2 inch fresh ginger grated

Instructions

In a pitcher or large jar, combine the water, apple cider vinegar, molasses (or honey), and grated ginger. Stir well until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
Cover the pitcher and let the switchel base sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
To serve, add 2-4 tablespoons of the switchel base per cup of still or sparkling water. Stir and enjoy cold.
Strain out the ginger before serving if desired, or leave it in for stronger flavor.

Notes

For variations, add sliced fruit (lemon, orange, apple), fresh herbs (mint, basil, rosemary), or warming spices (cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods) to the base during the steeping process.

Keyword switchel, haymaker's punch recipe, apple cider vinegar drink, ginger drink, natural electrolyte, colonial drink