Ginger water: The new health trend taking over summer drinks
The famous morning lemon water has a new competitor. The latest hit for the last days of summer vacation is ginger water. Its slightly spicy taste combined with refreshing properties makes it a frequent choice for health-conscious individuals. But why should you consider choosing ginger water? And does every ginger root from the grocery store work for this drink? Details below.
3:21 PM EDT, August 23, 2024
When compared to other flavored drinks, ginger water is not only healthier but also easy to prepare at home. This gives us complete control over its ingredients, allowing us to avoid unwanted additives and adjust the taste to our preferences. This makes ginger water an ideal drink for every day, especially in the hot summer months.
Health benefits
Ginger water is a true treasure trove of health benefits. First and foremost, ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It acts as a natural remedy for alleviating pain and inflammation. Additionally, ginger supports digestion. Compounds in ginger stimulate the production of digestive juices, facilitating digestion. Ginger water also has a positive effect on the immune system. Its high antioxidant content helps fight free radicals that can damage body cells. Regular consumption of this drink can strengthen immunity and protect against infections.
How to choose ginger for drinks?
Select pieces with smooth, even skin. Any dryness or, worse, mold spores will disqualify the product for kitchen use. Before cooking, the root should be thoroughly washed and preferably scrubbed. Additionally, it can be peeled – the easiest way to do this is with a spoon. Scrubbing the surface will remove the thinnest layer without losing the valuable properties just beneath the skin of the ginger.
Recipe for ginger water
Preparing ginger water is simpler than it might seem. To make it, you need a few basic ingredients: fresh ginger, water, and optional extras like honey, lemon, or mint. I recommend about a 2-inch piece of ginger root per quart of water. Slice - or better yet, grate - the ginger and combine it with water. Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. Place it in the refrigerator for a few hours, and before serving, mix in lemon juice, honey, or mint for a more distinctive flavor.
Another way is to add ginger slices directly to cold water and leave them in the refrigerator for a few hours. This ginger water is less intense but just as refreshing.