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I’m not telling you about this because it’s trendy. It’s not even a new trend. No, as far as following the flock goes, I tend to run in the other direction of what’s currently considered ‘cool’. I refuse to eat anything ‘unicorn’ – that is something which has been transformed into a rainbow-coloured version of its former self in order to be more magical, and I draw a flat white line when you try to foist espresso in a chocolate coated waffle cone on me. This switchel thing, however, is definitely worth knowing about for several reasons
1. It’s not some viral-hungry, gimmicky trend
All the best new-age things were once old-school. LPs. Macrame plant holders. Neti-pots. Buying local. Yoga. Re-usable diapers. The list is long and filled with sustainability. Switchel is on that list.
Known to some as swizzy or ginger water and fondly referred to as haymaker’s punch, switchel can be traced back to the pioneering woodsmen and farming communities of 17th and 18th century American colonies, specifically New England. Some believe it was popularized in the Caribbean. Either way, it’s come full circle back to the console jar touting bearded hipsters and farm-to-table foragers.
2. It’s super easy to make
I first thought of switchel as the less effort, yet equally refreshing cousin of kombucha tonics. A twice removed cousin that is, because when you boil it down, they’re not that similar at all, except that you might find them in the same health aisle of the fresh goods market.
Where kombucha requires live bacterial colonies and days of fermentation, switchel is a happy and simple blend of water, ginger, apple cider vinegar and a sweetener, (usually maple syrup but can also be honey).
And here’s why I love it. It couldn’t be easier to make. Start with any one of the hundreds of recipes online and tweak the quantities to get your perfect flavor profile. Simmer it on the stove for a while to fully extract that zingy ginger tang. Pop it in the fridge and you’re golden – a golden oldie.
3. It’s healthy too (especially when you were being unhealthy the night before)
It simultaneously offers the tartness of a ginger beer, the sweetness of a cordial while refreshing you in that iced-tea-on-the-stoep kind of way. The ACV (apple cider vinegar) and maple in switchel means you get the added bonus of a rich potassium drink. This makes it a darn good option for keeping those post workout electrolytes in check. You may even lean on it in less-reputable instances when you find yourself reprimanding house mates for nabbing the last Rehydrate sachet, again.
4. It WILL be a popular and versatile crowd pleaser
The good gut vibes everyone’s after to cure all manner of ails sees another box ticked with this easy sipper, if you’re making yours with unfiltered ACV.
The final (and most dazzling) reason to make some ‘haymaker’ while the sun shines goes well with hammocks, picnics in the park, and possible even bespoke, apothecary-esque bars. Add a splash of your favourite craft gin or preferred tipple and you’ve got yourself a Lazy Lizzy Gin Fizzy Swizzle (Not yet a thing, I just made that up).
Guaranteed, you’ll find me flirting with a tall glass of switchel all summer long. But virgin or naughty, who can say?
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FAQs
The beverage is touted to have numerous benefits, including improved gut health, electrolyte replenishment during exercise, and blood sugar stabilization. However, there has been no research on switchel's connection to any of these health benefits.
Is switchel the same as kombucha? ›
While switchel uses apple cider vinegar, which is a byproduct of fermentation, switchel is brewed by simmering over low heat and is not fermented. Switchel does not contain alcohol or caffeine. As for taste, switchel has a refreshing "zing" and crispness, whereas kombucha is usually tart and fizzy.
Is switchel a probiotic? ›
If it is not heated or pasteurized, it is a probiotic tonic in its own right, full of lactic acid bacteria that benefit the gut and stimulate the digestive system. It has been used in refreshing beverages for centuries, though its use as such had fallen out of favor before the recent-shrub-craze.
What does switchel taste like? ›
Switchel is actually pretty similar to lemonade: a tart mixture of apple cider vinegar, a natural sweetener like molasses or maple syrup, fresh ginger, and water, it packs a thirst-quenching wallop, especially when served over ice (via The Kitchn).
What does pressed apple cider do for your body? ›
Apple cider contains polyphenols, which are compounds in plants that act as antioxidants. They can help the body to fight against free radicals and cell damage, lowering your risk of certain types of cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Polyphenols also help to ease inflammation in the body.
How many times a week should you drink ACV? ›
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is generally safe to consume daily. Most research recommends a daily dosage of approximately 1–2 tablespoons of ACV, mixed in water. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a type of vinegar made from fermented apple juice.
What is remedy switchel? ›
Fizzy, refreshing and a little fiery Remedy Switchel is an effortlessly easy way to get your daily fix of ACV and ginger and is a great swap for your regular, sugary soft drink. Full of antioxidants, live cultures and organic acids, Remedy Switchel is: Sugar free, for real. All Natural.
Why is kombucha good for liver? ›
Enzymes and acids in kombucha can assist your liver as it gets rid of undesired compounds in your body, says Smith. Some research even suggests kombucha may have potential as a therapeutic dietary supplement to combat fatty liver disease.
Is switchel alcoholic? ›
Switchel, switzel, swizzle, switchy, ginger-water or haymaker's punch is a drink made of water mixed with vinegar, and often seasoned with ginger. It is usually sweetened with molasses, though honey, sugar, brown sugar, or maple syrup are sometimes used instead.
How long does switchel need to be refrigerated? ›
The switchel keeps in the refrigerator for about one week. If you plan to make a sparkling switchel, use just 3 cups of water for the infusion so it isn't as diluted. Add seltzer or club soda to the glass. For the most effective switchel, use unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the "mother" (the cloudy bloom).
Switchel dates back to 17th century, where it was popular thrist-quencher with colonial farmers who called it "haymaker's punch". Learn more about the history of switchel.
Where does switchel come from? ›
The switchel is a mixture of apple cider vinegar, ginger and a sweetener; it's thought to have originated in the Caribbean and became popular among American colonists in 17th-century New England.
What is the most healthy drink in the world? ›
According to the Tea Council of the USA survey, about 86% of Americans drink green tea. Green tea is generally considered the healthiest beverage globally due to its high levels of nutrients and antioxidants that fight off diseases and keep your organ functioning at its optimum level.
Is switchel better than kombucha? ›
Kombucha is known for its probiotic properties due to fermentation, which can help with digestion and gut health. Switchel, on the other hand, is high in potassium and other electrolytes, making it a good choice for rehydration.
Does switchel have electrolytes? ›
Get an electrolyte boost
But because of the maple syrup and apple cider vinegar found in switchel, potassium-rich electrolytes, particularly potassium, are replenished, making it an excellent alternative to sugary drinks like Gatorade.
Are there any benefits to drinking cider? ›
These polyphenols are thought to help protect the body from inflammation and fight off infections. Drinking cider can also help boost your energy levels, thanks to the natural sugars found in the beverage. Cider is also a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
What does drinking ACV every morning do? ›
Drinking apple cider vinegar (ACV) has long been associated with being antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, aiding weight loss, curbing appetite and improving insulin sensitivity, helping to control blood sugar and diabetes.
Is vinegar drink good? ›
Drinking vinegar in moderation
It is advisable to start with a lower dose, 5 mL for the first few days, and observe how your body responds to it and then, gradually increment it. Some people may experience digestion issues even after drinking a 10 to 15 mL dose of vinegar.
What are the health benefits of mulled cider? ›
Many of these spices—such as cinnamon, cloves, fresh ginger and nutmeg—are great for supporting immune health and function. Another health benefit of unfiltered mulled apple cider is that it may help maintain regular digestive health thanks to the fiber.
