Jaimee's Oxymel
Our herb enthusast @fermetingprojects has been whipping up jars of this herbal elixir to lift our spirits. An oxymel is a mixture of vinegar and honey that is usually infused with herbs. Traditionally they where taken medicinally, nowadays you are as likely to find them behind a fancy cocktail bar as you are a herbalists cabniet. Jaimee's recipe is super simple. Made with raw honey and good quality vinegar, all you need is to choose which herbs you like best. We add a tablespoon to hot water for a soothing tea, or to sparkling water for a booze free pick me up.
Makes: 1 x 300 ml jar
Ingredients:
140 ml raw honey
140 ml good quality vinegar (we like apple cider and sherry)
1 tablespoon of chopped dried herbs, or dried root such a ginger or turmeric*
*don't use powdered ginger or turmeric in this recipe. Instead, dry fresh roots in a low oven until they have no moisture in them.
Method:
Preheat oven to 110 degrees. Once hot, place a clean glass jar in the oven for 10 minutes. Carefully remove and allow to cool on the bench.
In a non-reactive bowl or jug, mix honey and vinegar together. Stir vigorously. Pour into cooled jar and add chopped herbs or roots.
Allow your oxymel to steep for 2- 3 weeks. To use you can strain it, or leave the herbs or roots in and enjoy.
Here are our common herbal suggestions:
Dried rosemary: great for circulation, can aid headaches and improve memory. Mixed with equal parts dried lavender it is an anti-depressant
Dried sage: excellent digestive, good for sore throats, and can relieve night sweats.
Dried peppermint: soothe upset tummies, cooling and calming. Excellent ally when feeling a bloated.
Dried ginger: a classic for colds and flus. Warming on the body and will calm nausea.
Dried turmeric: another classic for colds and flus. Anti inflammatory and stimulating on the liver.