Years ago, farmers didn't have the easy access to oranges and lemons that we have now: a lucky child might get a single orange once a year as a Christmas treat, and serving lemonade was very much of a special event. So what DID they drink in hot summer weather, other than water, milk or alcohol? Tea was expensive, and it was hard enough to afford coffee. One answer is 'switchel', which is surprisingly refreshing. You can vary the ingredients to suit yourself; I prefer it without the oatmeal, and with additional sugar or honey instead of the molasses.
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup molasses
1/2 sugar or honey
1/2 cup oatmeal (optional)
1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
Water
Mix together ingredients, add enough water to make it total 2 quarts. Serve chilled.
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