Not The Hayward Punch but the Real Punch The Haymaker's Punch

This drink is also called Haymaker's Punch (because it was drunk while haying fields) and it's easy to make with just a few ingredients. Cider vinegar is the main ingredient—which many folks find has added health benefits. 

Switchel is not very hydrating, but also energizing.  Think of it as "Nature's Gatorade." It will give you that electrolyte boost better than any pricey energy drink or soda. It's known as a health tonic that boosts the immune system, too (but don't tell the kids it's 'healthy").

Switchel Recipe from the Almanac Archives

Here's a classic recipe from the 1930's which was unearthed from the archives of The Old Farmer's Almanac.

1 gallon water
1 ½ cups molasses
⅓ cup vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (ground)

If you want to cut the molasses, that's fine. You can use a few tablespoons of maple syrup, honey, or any sweetner. Find the right balance for you. Remember to start with less sweetener—as you can always add more. Switchel shouldn't coat your mouth; it should taste refreshing. Another idea is to add a teaspoon of fresh lemon or lime juice for zing.

Switchel Drink Recipe from an Almanac Reader

Here's another switchel recipe from Dennis Miles, an Almanac Facebook fan and full-time blacksmith. He drinks his switchel from a mid-19th century haymaker's jug.

1 gal. water2 cups raw or dark brown sugar1 cup molasses1 cup apple cider vinegar1 teaspoon ginger (fresh)

Serve in mason jars.

The Verdict

My friend, Wendy, and I decided to make a pitcher one summer's day, using ourAlmanac recipe.

Mmmm! Switchel is so refreshing and delicious!  It tastes pleasantly tart and—surprisingly—not too sweet. 

And, boy, is it drinkable—much more so than plain water. I'll say that it did quench my thirst for water, but not for switchel. We drank half the pitcher and felt quite, ah, saturated!

You can make the switchel last longer or less sweet by adding more water or a bubbly seltzer. (My guess is it could turn into a cocktail drink, too.)

Drink from a mason jar or jug if you have one!
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