Spicy, soothing, and naturally invigorating, the Ginger Drink is a timeless wellness beverage enjoyed both hot and cold around the world. Made with fresh ginger root, water, and a touch of natural sweetener like honey or lemon, this drink delivers a bold kick and a wealth of health benefits. Whether you sip it warm as a calming tea or serve it chilled as a refreshing tonic, ginger drink is the perfect blend of comfort and vitality.
Ingredients
| Fresh Ginger Root | 2-3 inches (50-70g) |
|---|---|
| Water | 2 cups (480 ml) |
| Honey | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| (Optional Additions) Cinnamon Stick | 1 small |
| (Optional Additions) Pinch of Black Pepper | ⅛ teaspoon |
| (Optional Additions) Fresh Mint Sprig | 1-2 |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Ginger
- Wash the fresh ginger root well. You can scrape off the skin with a spoon if preferred, but it's not strictly necessary.
- Slice the ginger thinly (about ⅛ inch or 3 mm thick rounds). For a stronger infusion, you can gently bruise the slices with the back of a spoon or roughly chop them.
Step 2: Simmer the Ginger
- In a small saucepan, combine the sliced ginger and 2 cups of water.
- If using, add a cinnamon stick now.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. For a stronger ginger flavor, you can simmer it for up to 20 minutes.
Step 3: Strain and Sweeten
- Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Carefully pour the ginger infusion through a fine-mesh strainer into a mug or a small pitcher, discarding the ginger slices (and cinnamon stick, if used).
- Stir in the honey and fresh lemon juice until the honey is fully dissolved.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking. If it's too strong, you can add a little more hot water.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the Warming Ginger Hot Drink immediately while it's hot.
- If using, garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Extra Tips for a Perfect Ginger Hot Drink
- Ginger Strength: The more ginger you use and the longer you simmer it, the stronger and spicier your drink will be. Adjust to your preference.
- Peeling Ginger: While not strictly necessary, peeling ginger can result in a slightly cleaner taste and appearance. A spoon is great for scraping off the thin skin.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Agave syrup, maple syrup, or a natural sugar like brown sugar can be used in place of honey. You can also enjoy it unsweetened.
- Boost for Colds: For extra immune support during a cold, consider adding a pinch of turmeric powder (and a tiny pinch of black pepper to help with turmeric absorption) along with the ginger in the simmering step.
- Batch Preparation: You can make a larger batch of ginger infusion (without honey and lemon) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions as needed and then add honey and lemon.
- Other Flavors:
- Mint: Add a few fresh mint leaves to the simmering water during the last minute or two, or directly to the mug when serving.
- Orange: A strip of orange peel added during simmering can provide a lovely citrusy aroma.
Nutritional Value
(per serving, 1 cup, with 1.5 tbsp honey)
| Calories | 60-80 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 0-1 grams |
| Fat | 0 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20 grams |
| Fiber | 0-1 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ Boosts Immunity: Ginger is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support the immune system and help fight infections.
- ✅ Aids Digestion: Known to relieve bloating, nausea, and indigestion by stimulating digestive enzymes.
- ✅ Reduces Inflammation: Contains gingerol, which helps reduce muscle pain and joint inflammation.
- ✅ Improves Circulation: Naturally stimulates blood flow and may help lower blood pressure.
- ✅ Natural Remedy for Colds: When served hot, it soothes sore throats, clears congestion, and warms the body from the inside.
Whether you're looking for a natural detox drink, a remedy for a sore throat, or simply a flavorful way to stay hydrated, the Ginger Drink is a powerful addition to your daily wellness routine. Its bold taste and healing properties make it a favorite across cultures and generations.
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