Farmhands used to mix apple cider vinegar, ginger, and molasses into a jug of water to fight off the summer heat, and it turns out that old field tonic doubles as a genuinely solid digestive pick-me-up. Five minutes, no cooking, and you've got a tart, spicy cooler ready to go.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar (with the mother)
- 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice, for serving
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Whisk the vinegar, molasses, grated ginger, and maple syrup together in a jar until fully combined.
- Stir in the cold water and let sit for at least 15 minutes so the ginger can infuse.
- Strain out the ginger if you prefer a smoother drink.
- Fill glasses with ice, pour the switchel over the top, and finish with a squeeze of lime.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | 60 |
| Total fat | 0g |
| Total carbohydrates | 15g |
| Dietary fiber | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Sodium | 15mg |
Why This Is Good for Your Gut
Unfiltered apple cider vinegar's 'mother' contains acetic acid bacteria and residual enzymes that can support stomach acid levels, which helps break food down more completely before it reaches the intestines. Fresh ginger contributes gingerol and shogaol, compounds shown to speed gastric emptying and calm nausea, while blackstrap molasses adds trace magnesium and potassium that support smooth muscle function in the gut.
Grandpa's field tonic, now with better branding.
For more ginger-forward gut remedies, try our Citrus Ginger Immune Tea or Oxymel Elderberry Tonic.
This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
