Pineapple Basil Switchel is a delightfully tangy, sweet, fruity beverage with so many options for flavor combinations. Its history goes back to at least when the American colonies were formed. Farmers commonly drank it to maintain hydration while working in their fields during the hot summer months. Since all components contain potassium, it is thought to have been used to maintain electrolyte balance. In other words, it is the original Gatorade.
Switchel aka Haymaker’s Punch, Harvest Drink, Harvest Beer and others, is simple to make and much healthier than any soda. The formula is simple. Combine apple cider vinegar, sweetener, ginger, and water. That’s it.
I have been making different flavors for the past few months. I use any ripe fruit I have on hand and for an extra flavor punch use a small handful of basil, mint, thyme, or lemongrass.
A few ingredients and you are ready to get started.
Add everything to a pitcher and chill.
Pineapple Basil Switchel
Ingredients
- 1/3 C. Apple Cider Vinegar, raw Bragg’s is Perfect
- 1/3 C. Maple syrup
- 1 C. Pineapple, chunks
- 1 Small handful Basil, roughly chopped
- 3 T. Ginger, chopped
- 1 Lemon, juiced
- Water to fill a half gallon Mason jar or pitcher
Instructions
- Place apple cider vinegar and maple syrup in a half gallon jar or pitcher. Stir until combined.
- Add pineapple, basil, ginger, and lemon juice to jar. Mix until incorporated.
- Add water to fill jar, cover and chill in refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight.
- Strain and enjoy over ice.
What are your favorite beverages for the warm Days of Spring and Summer?
Please let me know what you think?
Aloha from Maui! 🍍
Yum! I bet the vinegar gives this such a good kick. Say hello to the ocean for me! I used to live in Hawaii too; it’s such an extraordinary and special place 🌺❤️🌺
Hi again! I really appreciate your opinion and hope you try this thirst quenching recipe. Oh cool. Where did you live? We feel very fortunate to be living here.
Mahalo! 🤙
I initially lived on the Big Island, and later on Oahu. I was just texting today with a dear friend who lives in Waimanalo. I can’t wait to get back to visit! 🌴
Oh beautiful! Well, I hope you can come visit soon. 🌈