One of the most refreshing and natural electrolyte drinks, the ginger switchel, also known as Haymaker's Punch, is regaining popularity partly because of its health benefits, and partly just because it is delicious and perfectly hydrating.
Peel and cut about an inch of ginger root. You can either grate it, slice it, or cut it into tiny pieces.If you will be serving immediately, grating helps release the flavors of the ginger more quickly. If slicing the ginger, it's best to allow it to steep for several hours to give off more flavor.
Add the ginger, vinegar, and sweeteners to the bottom of a 1-quart pitcher. Press the ginger against the side of the pitcher with a wooden spoon to help muddle it and release the flavor. (If using grated ginger, you can skip the muddling.)
Fill the rest of the pitcher with water (around 4 cups of water).
Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and chill for several hours, or overnight. This helps infuse the water with the ginger flavor and helps the flavors meld together.
Adjust the flavors to suit your taste, if needed. For more acidity, add more vinegar. For a sweeter drink, add more maple syrup.
Optionally strain out the ginger before serving.
Serve the drink cold, with or without ice.
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Notes
This recipe makes around 1 quart. You can also make a more concentrated version (with less water) and then mix it with soda water for a slightly carbonated beverage.The maple syrup can be substituted with other sweeteners (like honey) as desired.