Sick Season Mocktail

an immunity tonic that feels like a big hug

i swim in 50(ish) degree water every week, which is going to be interesting as the weather gets colder. i’m a little bit nervous that i’m going to deeply regret the decision to be a cold open water swimmer.

but i am not getting sick. and neither are you. that’s why i wanted to share my very favorite tummy immunity tonic for the season ahead. there’s something special about enjoying a drink and knowing that it also is going to take care of you in some way, because (no shame) i tend to feel a little more sad in colder months.

so when the weather turns i like to have drinks batched for moments when i need a little comfort. i enjoy it iced with dinner or hot after a swim and every time i drink it, it’s like i’m giving myself a big hug. and sometimes that’s all you need to get through the day. sending love!!

tonic ingredients

2 inch ginger knob, sliced into medallions

10 whole cloves

1/4-3c honey (depending on desired level of sweetness)

5 cups water

peel of 1 orange

mocktail ingredients (iced / hot)

handful of mint

1/2 lime, quartered and squeezed

seltzer (for iced), hot water (for hot)

method

to a pot, add water, honey, cloves, ginger, and orange peels. bring to a boil and stir to combine all ingredients. after a few minutes, once the honey has dissolved, reduce to a very low simmer and allow the tonic to simmer for about 5-7 minutes to get really nice and concentrated.

strain the tonic into a heat proof jar to remove cloves, ginger, peels and store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks (believe me, it won’t last that long).

to make it cold: squeeze lime quarters into a glass and add a handful of mint + ice. add about 3oz tonic and top with sparkling water.

to make it hot: squeeze lime quarters into a mug and add a handful of mint. add about 3oz tonic and top with hot water.

this is me enjoying it warm (with the addition of green tea) after a swim!