Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and peel the fresh ginger. Slice it thinly (about 1/8 inch thick rounds). You can also grate it for stronger flavor, but slicing makes straining easier.
- In a small saucepan, combine the sliced ginger and 3 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. This allows the ginger to infuse fully into the water.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully pour the ginger water through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher or jar, discarding the cooked ginger slices.
- Allow the ginger water to cool slightly. Stir in fresh lemon juice and honey or maple syrup to taste, if desired. Add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little kick.
- Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. For a refreshing cool drink, let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least an hour.
Notes
Ginger water can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For maximum benefits, drink a glass first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. You can adjust the amount of ginger to your preference for a milder or stronger taste. Adding a slice of cucumber or a sprig of mint can also enhance the flavor.
