American Vinegar Works Switchel
Switchel, sometimes called Haymaker’s Punch, is the original New England sports drink and was intended for hot days and farm fields. It has been drunk throughout New England but has an especially long history in Vermont and the neighboring New York farmlands. If you have ever purchased vinegar from us you have this recipe. We are concerned, however, that not enough of you have made this and with temperatures going up we are giving switchels another call out here. They are also perfect for our newest ACV. The bourbon is not traditional and is totally optional but we think it is a delicious addition and we like to extend an apple branch to the South.
This recipe features our 19.53 Apple Cider Vinegar.
Which vinegar to use, and why
A switchel is cider vinegar, water and something sweet, so the vinegar is most of the drink. Worth using a raw one with the mother. We use 19.53 Miles From The Tree Apple Cider Vinegar here. It is slow-fermented and aged in oak at our mill in Worcester, Massachusetts, which is why it seasons the dish rather than just souring it.
Make it ahead and keep it
Mix a jug and keep it in the fridge. It holds for days and is better cold.
What to cook next
Try Arnold Palmer with Vinegar, or browse all our vinegar recipes. If you have not cooked with craft vinegar before, a mini bottle sampler set lets you taste across the range before committing to a full-size bottle. Orders over $85 ship free within the contiguous US.
