Switchel (a.k.a. ginger drink): the original “Gatorade”

During the long Labor Day weekend, if you've been driving through rural New England, you've likely observed farmers harvesting the final cutting of hay for the season. This early September ritual dates back to the seventeenth century when colonial farmers had one last opportunity to increase their feed stores in preparation for the long winter ahead. To combat heat stroke during their long days in the fields, a fermented beverage, switchel, was prepared utilizing just a few readily available natural ingredients including ginger, molasses, and apple cider vinegar. Once the go-to "energy drink" of New England farmers, who consumed it by the jugful, its popularity lasted well into the twentieth century, until Gatorade hit the market in 1969.

However, what’s old is new again, and switchel is making a comeback as evidenced by several beverage companies who have begun bottling this slightly fizzy drink. Stoked by the kombucha craze, switchel is finding its place among fermented beverages that are good for the gut. But, why not make your own version for a fraction of the price? During these final dog days of summer skip the Gatorade and switch to switchel, a truly refreshing soft drink!

Here’s the basic recipe, which can be modified to your liking by adding ingredients such as lemon juice, honey, maple syrup or a splash or two of seltzer:

Photo credit: Lisa Careau for Tankful Travels

Switchel (for one)

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 4 teaspoons molasses 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger) 1 cup water

Place all the ingredients in a jar, and shake to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Shake the jar before serving (if using fresh ginger, strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth). Taste and adjust the sweetener to your liking. Pour over ice and enjoy!