Ginger shot for a strong immune system

All-rounder ginger?

With its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and expectorant effect on colds, it’s no wonder that ginger was voted medicinal plant of the year in 2018. Taken preventively, the root is a source of vitamin C and contains potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus – all substances that boost our immune system. Thanks to its spicy ingredient gingerol, it helps prevent travel sickness and aids digestion.

Ginger shots as a trend

Ginger has now grown to enjoy great popularity, whether in the form of tea, as a spice powder or as a tuber for cooking. Another trend that has emerged in recent years is the ginger shot. As the name suggests, this variation involves drinking a small amount (approx. 40ml) of high-dose ginger in liquid form. Such a shot can easily replace coffee in the morning as its spiciness gets the body going and warms it from the inside.

Basic recipe without a mixer

The basic recipe for ginger shots is very simple and can be adapted according to taste. A positive side-effect of making your own is that you save money, as shop-bought ginger shots can often be very expensive.

Ingredients for ginger shot without a mixer

• 300g fresh ginger 
• juice and zest of 5 organic lemons
• 700ml water
• 200g honey

Method

1. Wash the ginger and cut it unpeeled into small pieces.
2. Wash and zest the lemons and place the zest with the ginger pieces and 700ml water in a pan. Simmer gently for approx. 20 minutes. Pass the liquid through a sieve and leave to cool.
3. Squeeze the lemons and stir the juice into the honey. Mix this with the cooled ginger-lemon liquid, pour into a clean glass bottle and store in the fridge.

Basic recipe with a mixer

The basic recipe is for people who like their shot spicy and acidic. 

Ingredients for ginger shot with a mixer

• approx. 100g ginger
• 3 lemons

Method

1. To make the shot, take the juice of three lemons. 
2. Peel the ginger, cut it into small pieces and add it to the lemon juice. 
3. Then blend the mixture in a food processor or with a hand-held mixer. 
4. To prevent the shot from becoming too thick, pass the mixture through a fine sieve and pour it into a sealable bottle. 

Attention

If you have a sensitive stomach, you shouldn't drink the ginger shot on an empty stomach. Care should also be taken during pregnancy as ginger has a contraction-promoting effect. This is why many doctors advise against drinking ginger shots during pregnancy. Consult your doctor to be on the safe side.

The basic recipe can be supplemented according to taste. My favourite version is the Turmeric orange ginger shot.

Turmeric orange ginger shot

• approx. 100g ginger
• 2 lemons
• 1 orange
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• a little pepper
• a dash of agave syrup

Tip: Apples, honey or maple syrup also taste good in a ginger shot.

Blend the peeled ginger, lemon juice and orange juice, spices and agave syrup in a mixer and pass the liquid through a sieve.