Switchel: The Haymaker's Punch
A traditional American thirst-quencher made with apple cider vinegar, ginger, a touch of sweetness, and water. Perfect for hot days.
Ingredients
- 8 cup water
- 0.5 cup apple cider vinegar
- 0.25 cup molasses or maple syrup/honey
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger or 2 inches fresh grated ginger
- 1 pinch salt optional
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine water, apple cider vinegar, molasses (or your chosen sweetener), and ground ginger. If using fresh grated ginger, add it now.
- Stir vigorously until the molasses is fully dissolved and all ingredients are well combined. If using fresh ginger, let the mixture steep for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Add a pinch of salt if desired, which helps with electrolytes.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or ginger intensity if needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill thoroughly. Strain out fresh ginger before serving, if used.
- Serve cold over ice. Enjoy your refreshing haymaker's punch!
Notes
For a spicier kick, use fresh ginger root and grate it directly into the water, letting it steep for longer. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference. Serve chilled over ice. Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of molasses.