You can even read about switchel in my favorite book series, "The Little House on the Prairie". Ma makes switchel as a surprise for Pa and allows the girls to bring it to him in the hay field.
Switchel recipes change according to each individual family's tastes. Here is a basic recipe: one part apple cider vinegar, two parts sweetener, two inch piece of ginger.
Grate the ginger, then add the honey and vinegar. Refrigerate until needed. Mix 4 tablespoons into a cup of water to make switchel.
The sweetener changes according to the area of the country. A small amount of molasses or sorghum gives the switchel a traditional flavor.
Medicinally the vinegar in switchel is purported to reduce arthritis inflammation and reduce cholesterol. The ginger is an anti nausea remedy. The honey soothes a sore throat and cough.
Try switchel as a beneficial home remedy and a healthy alternative to sports drinks.
God bless,
Pam
As a big Laura Ingalls fan, I've always wanted to try this. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteSay, thanks for that recipe. That sounds like a real possibility. I think these old remedies have survived for a good reason! ~Liz
ReplyDeleteWhat great timing! DH & I were just thinking about looking up a home-made version of gatoraide so we can have it at the house, and this sounds perfect, thanks!
ReplyDelete