Apple Cider Vinegar Switchel (Haymaker’s Punch)

When the scratchy and dusty hayfields were nearly intolerable under the hot sun, generations of farmers looked forward to that glimmer of joy in the haymaking process when wives and young kids would come over the knoll with a big pitcher and glasses.

Hello, switchel!

While you’d think water would be the superior choice, switchel is actually better because it contains water along with copious amounts of ginger and apple cider vinegar which makes it both refreshing and gentle on those hardworking bodies.

But, you don’t have to be an exhausted farmer hoping for a few clouds on a hot day to enjoy this drink! It’s perfect for a workout, a walk around the neighborhood, or just a refreshing beverage when you roll out of bed.

Apple cider vinegar switchel ingredients + substitutions and tips

To make this switchel, you’ll need:

• 9 cups water, divided

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup peeled and finely chopped ginger

• 1 cup molasses

• ½ cup apple cider vinegar

• ¼ cup lemon juice

Let’s talk through a few ingredient substitutions…

This drink is already dairy-free and vegan; if you want to make it Paleo and Keto-friendly, substitute the granulated sugar for an erythritol type sweetener. Speaking of sweeteners, I’m sure honey or maple syrup would also deliver the goods.

If you don’t have fresh ginger near at hand, you can substitute dried ginger for fresh. The general rule of thumb is that you use 1/8 teaspoon of dried ginger for every tablespoon of fresh ginger. But, if you’re using dried ginger, get those tasting spoons out, because depending on how old the dried ginger is, it’s going to lose some of its intensity.

How to make apple cider vinegar switchel (step-by-step instructions)

This drink is super easy to make. After gathering your ingredients…

• In a medium saucepan bring 1 cup of water, granulated sugar, and ginger to a light boil over medium heat.

• Reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes.

• Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes.

• In a large pitcher stir together remaining water, ginger simple syrup, molasses, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice.

• Refrigerate for 1 hour to fully let the flavors meld.

You can also make this drink the day before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to pour it over ice!

Other recipes and tips:

• 59 Different Sugars and Sugar Substitutes: The Ultimate Cook’s Guide

• Apple cider vinegar gummies recipe

• How to make ginger shots

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