Right now we have a few summertime drinks brewing in various locations in our kitchen: Ginger Switchel, Kombucha and Nettle Mint Tea.

In this post I will share the recipe I like to use for making switchel, and will share my kombucha and nettle tea making techniques in upcoming posts.

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Switchel is a delicious, refreshing and good for you summertime beverage that you can easily make! I have a batch in my refrigerator right now. I utilized this recipe below from Wellness Mama, using honey from Wolf Honey Farm who houses some of his bees on our property. We have enjoyed learning more about honey bees and being a part of this process! (especially since I don’t have to don a bee suit myself!)

Ginger Honey Switchel Recipe

A fermented drink that combines the benefits of apple cider vinegar, raw honey (or molasses), and ginger for a refreshing and electrolyte drink.

Ingredients

• 2 TBSP unfiltered apple cider vinegar with “the mother”
• 3 TBSP  raw honey or blackstrap molasses
• 2- inch piece of fresh ginger root peeled and finely minced
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 of a fresh lime juiced and zested

Instructions

• Mix all ingredients in a large jar, cover, and shake well.
• Place in the refrigerator overnight.
• To serve, pour over ice or add seltzer water if desired.

Benefits of Switchel

Wellness Mama says… Like other fermented foods and drinks, switchel has its share of benefits, depending on the ingredients. There are endless ways to make this tasty drink and all of the ingredients offer their own benefits. In my favorite recipe, I use:

• Apple cider vinegar: A great natural source of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, as well as beneficial bacteria and acids. While many people don’t love the strong flavor of vinegar by itself, it is perfect in this recipe when balanced with ginger, honey, and lime.
• Honey: A versatile natural remedy in our house that I use as a face wash, to help speed healing of cuts and burns, and even as a natural sleep aid. Raw honey is a source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes that makes it a nutrient powerhouse with antiviral and antibacterial properties. It is often recommended for digestive health and there is some evidence that it may benefit the skin when taken internally.
• Ginger: A powerful natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant due to the presence of an oil called gingerol. It has a long history of use as a remedy for digestive problems, nausea, and illness. In this recipe, it adds both flavor and a slight spicy balance to the sweetness of the honey. Ginger root is found in most grocery stores and its skin can be peeled off easily with the edge of a spoon.
• Lime: I add some fresh lime juice purely for flavor but it is also a good source of vitamin C.

Above and additional information found at Wellness Mama HERE.