Cookbook:Switchel (Ginger Water)

| Cuisine of the United States | Beverages

Switchel, also known as ginger water or haymaker's punch, is a sweetened beverage made from ground ginger, apple cider vinegar, sugar or other sweeteners and water. It is a traditional drink on farms in the north eastern United States, where it was made to soothe the thirsts of farm workers as well as (allegedly) boost one's stamina. It is served chilled, but is often served warmed in the Winter months.

Variation I

 * 1 cup (about 240 ml) sugar
 * 1 tablespoon (15 ml) ground ginger
 * 1 quart (1 liter) water
 * 1 cup (about 240 ml) apple cider vinegar

Variation II

 * ¾ cup (about 180 ml) maple syrup
 * 1 heaping teaspoon (about 6 ml) ground ginger
 * 1 gallon (about 3.75 liters) water
 * ⅔ cup (about 160 ml) apple cider vinegar

Procedure

 * 1) Dissolve sugar/syrup and ground ginger in the water.
 * 2) Stir in the apple cider vinegar
 * 3) Chill or serve over ice cubes. Shake well before serving.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Some traditional recipes have used maple syrup, honey and/or molasses, separately or in combination, as sweeteners. The ratio of sweetener and vinegar to water vary widely in traditional and modern recipes.
 * A small amount of oatmeal is sometimes added to give the beverage more body and to add to the flavor.