Cherry Switzel

Before there was gatorade American settlers relied on switchel to quench their thirst! from the 1700s through the 1900s. Early colonists often combined fresh ginger, apple cider vinegar, and water with a regionally dependent sweetener such as molassas or honey. According to Atlas Obscura, People didn’t understand the scientific reasons for switchel’s health-boosting benefits; they just knew it worked!

2 cups stemmed sweet cherries

1/2 vanilla bean

1/2 cup maple syrup

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

1-2 slices fresh peeled ginger

Mix all of the ingredients together in a large mason jar. Cover with a cheesecloth or cloth napkin, securing with a rubber band. Allow the switchel steep for at least a couple of hours so that the ginger and cherry flavors infuses. Serve cold over ice, if desired.