I hadn't plan to take a break, but life has a way of interfering with one's plans. I had a relaxing weekend with some girlfriends on Orcas Island the weekend before last and came back sick, and I still haven't quite been able to kick it. With all the Halloween planning last week, I wasn't able get the rest I needed to recover. Instead of really slowing down, like I should have, I just kept trying to ignore my sickness and continue on. Sometimes it seems life just won't slow down enough for you to get the rest you need. Monday, I finally gave in. I went home from work early and mixed up the remedy I should have made a week ago when I became sick.
This is something a friend told me about a few years ago, and she calls it "The Concoction."
Ingredients:
1 Gallon Pressed Apple Cider
2 Lemons
Fresh Ginger to taste - I used a lot 5-6 Tablespoons
Cayenne pepper to taste
Pour the apple cider into a stockpot and squeeze the lemons into the juice. I highly recommend using a lemon/lime juicer. Not only is it great for squeezing lemons to make the concoction, but it works like a charm to squeeze limes to make delicious margaritas. But I digress.
Peel the ginger using the side of a spoon. Using a microplane, grate the fresh ginger into the pot. This will be a bit of work but will be well worth it in the end. Bring the mixture to a boil.
To serve, ladle into a mug, making sure you get the delicious ginger bits and sprinkle with the cayenne pepper to taste. I usually add a lot because I feel like it really feel like it helps break up congestion in the head and chest. I'm not going to lie, this will burn a bit, but in a good way.
Cheers!
