Feeling sluggish lately? These days, when even my cat seems to have more energy than me, I find myself reaching for something with a zing—enter ginger shots! Packed with a spicy kick and a refreshing tang, they’re like a mini-vacation for your taste buds, minus the plane ticket.
Steps
- Wash the ginger thoroughly under running water, scrubbing with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt. Pat it dry with a kitchen towel or allow it to air dry.
- Use a spoon or table knife to peel the ginger root gently. For a single serving, peel about an inch of ginger, approximately 5 grams.
- Rinse and slice a fresh lemon, ensuring to use a newly cut lemon each time you prepare the shot.
- Grate the ginger using a grater to get the required amount of juice.
- Place a fine strainer over a cup and transfer the grated ginger into it. Press down with a spoon and squeeze the pulp with your fingers to extract as much juice as possible.
- Measure the ginger juice according to your needs: 15 ml for adults, 5 ml for kids aged 3 to 6, and 10 ml for kids aged 7 to 12. Pour the measured juice into small cups.
- Squeeze lemon juice into the ginger juice and mix them together to create your ginger shot.
- Optionally, add a teaspoon of honey and a pinch of black pepper to the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the honey dissolves.
- Consume the ginger shot immediately on an empty stomach for maximum benefits. Wait at least 25 to 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything else.
Ingredients
- 1 inch (approximately 5 grams) fresh ginger root, peeled (yields about 1 tablespoon juice)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, preferably Manuka honey)
- ? to ¼ teaspoon freshly crushed black pepper (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories 27 | Calories from Fat 9 | Fat 1g | Saturated Fat 1g | Sodium 1mg | Potassium 22mg | Carbohydrates 7g | Fiber 1g | Sugar 6g | Protein 1g | Vitamin A 2IU | Vitamin C 6mg | Calcium 2mg | Iron 1mg
FAQ
- What are the main benefits of consuming ginger shots?
- Ginger shots offer numerous health benefits due to their powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They support immune health, alleviate nausea, and aid in digestive issues.
- When is the best time to drink a ginger shot?
- For optimal benefits, ginger shots are best consumed once a day, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach. However, they should be consumed in moderation as excessive intake might lead to heartburn or acidity.
- What ingredients are used to make ginger shots?
- Ginger shots are primarily made with ginger juice, lemon juice, and honey. Black pepper is often added to enhance nutrient absorption and aid digestion.
- How do homemade ginger shots compare to store-bought ones?
- Homemade ginger shots allow for hand-selected organic ingredients, ensuring fewer chemicals like pesticides. They are also fresher, as the benefits of ginger decrease with oxidation, and more cost-effective than pre-bottled versions.
- Can ginger shots be stored for later use?
- Ginger shots are best consumed immediately after preparation to maximize their health benefits. Storing them for extended periods or freezing is not recommended as it diminishes their efficacy.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh ginger and lemons to ensure maximum flavor and health benefits in your ginger shots. Organic ingredients are preferable to minimize exposure to pesticides and chemicals.
- Consume Immediately: For the best health benefits, drink your ginger shot immediately after preparation. The properties of ginger can degrade upon oxidation, so it’s not advisable to store or freeze them for later use.
- Mind the Quantity: Limit the ginger to no more than 15 ml per shot to avoid potential heartburn or stomach acidity. You can adjust the lemon juice to your taste preference without overdoing the ginger.
- Adjust Sweetness and Heat: Adding honey can temper the ginger’s heat, but it’s optional based on your dietary preferences. Similarly, a small amount of black pepper can enhance nutrient absorption without overpowering the drink.
Equipment
- Slow Juicer – Useful if you’re making a larger batch of ginger shots.
- Vegetable Brush – For scrubbing the ginger root thoroughly.
- Fine Strainer – To strain the ginger juice after grating or blending.
- Small Grinder/Blender – For blending ginger and lemon juice if making a larger quantity.
