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Haymaker's Ginger Switchel
 
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Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 2 Minutes
Ready In: 17 Minutes
Servings: 8
Ginger switchel or Haymaker's Punch is a traditional nonalcoholic vinegar-based drink whose sourness was offset by a hefty dose of ginger and spices; it was named for the eighteenth-century farmers who drank it — literal haymakers. This ginger punch is flavored with lemon juice and sweetened with honey and molasses for a refreshing drink that quenches even the fiercest summer thirst. Includes chilling time. From Eating Well, July/August 2008.
Ingredients:
9 cups water, divided
1/4 cup minced fresh ginger
1/4 cup honey or 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup molasses
3/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
fresh berries, mint sprigs (to garnish) or lemon slice (to garnish)
Directions:
1. Combine 3 cups water with ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat, cover and let infuse for 15 minutes.
2. Strain the ginger-infused water into a pitcher, pressing on the ginger solids to extract all the liquid. Add honey (or maple syrup) and molasses; stir until dissolved. Stir in lemon juice, vinegar and the remaining 6 cups water. Chill until very cold, at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Stir the punch and serve in tall glasses over ice cubes. Garnish with berries, mint sprigs or lemon slices, if desired.
4. Make Ahead Tip: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
By RecipeOfHealth.com