GINGER WINE
Ginger Wine is also known as OT or the ‘OTHER THING’– the temperance drink for teetotalers. In the olden days, temperance drinks were not only seen as delicious non- alcoholic tipple, but were also thought to have health benefits. Ginger wine was advocated as a good digestive and for soothing nausea but also good for sore throats and colds.
(Ginger Wine and other temperance drinks were actually served in special Temperance Bars in the early 20th century. These Temperance Bars advocated abstinence from alcohol, often asked their patrons to sign a no-booze pledge and renounce the demon drink!)
Ingredients
200 grams fresh ginger
1 kg white sugar
6 limes or lemons (extract the juice)
3 pieces cinnamon
1dry red chillie (remove the seeds)
3 litres water
Peel and wash the ginger and cut into thin slices. Make lime juice and keep aside. In a large clean vessel put all the above ingredients together with the water and bring to boil. Boil for at least 2 hours first on high then on low heat till the decoction is slightly thick. Remove from heat and add the lime juice. When cold, strain through a thin cloth. Bottle the wine and use whenever required.
