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Apple cider vinegar, ginger, maple syrup, water. The drink colonial American farmers carried into the fields — the original electrolyte replacement, sharper and more honest than any sports drink.

Switchel appears in colonial American records as early as the 1690s and was the working drink of New England farms through the 19th century. Herman Melville mentions it in Moby Dick. Whalers drank it because it kept on ships for months without spoiling. Today's farmers' market 'craft switchel' is a direct revival — same recipe, better packaging.

Ingredients

• Apple Cider Vinegar1 ounce
• Maple Syrup½ ounce
• Fresh Grated Ginger1 teaspoon
• Cold Water4 ounces

Directions

Combine apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, grated ginger, and water in a jar. Stir vigorously. Refrigerate at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. Strain over crushed ice in a glass. Garnish with a thin slice of ginger or a few sprigs of mint.

Notes

Make it in batch and let it sit overnight; the flavors marry and the ginger mellows. Serve over crushed ice. Some traditions add molasses; modern palates prefer maple. Both are correct.