Ginger and Tomato Drink

Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 15 mins | Servings: 2 glasses

Ingredients

Base:

4 medium ripe tomatoes (or 1 can, 14 oz, whole peeled tomatoes)
1½ cups water (adjust for desired consistency)
2 tablespoons fresh ginger (about 2 inches, peeled and grated or chopped)

Flavor:

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to balance acidity)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
¼ teaspoon black pepper (helps absorb nutrients)
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Optional add-ins:

1 small clove garlic (for extra immunity kick)
½ small beet (for earthy sweetness and color)
1 celery stalk (for freshness)
Pinch of cayenne pepper (for heat)
Fresh basil or cilantro leaves (for herbaceous notes)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash the tomatoes and cut out the cores. Peel the fresh ginger using a spoon or knife. If using fresh tomatoes, you can blanch them in hot water for 30 seconds to remove the skins easily (optional, but gives a smoother drink).

Step 2: Blend Everything

Add the tomatoes, water, fresh ginger, honey (if using), lemon juice, black pepper, salt, and any optional add-ins to a high-speed blender. Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth.

Step 3: Strain (Optional)

For a smoother, pulp-free drink, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or nut milk bag. Use a spatula to press down and extract all the liquid. Discard the pulp or save it for soups or sauces.

Step 4: Heat or Chill

For a warm drink: Pour the blended mixture into a small pot and warm over medium heat until hot but not boiling (about 3-5 minutes). Do not boil, as heat can destroy some of ginger’s beneficial compounds.
For a cold drink: Pour over ice cubes and serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give your drink a taste. Too tangy? Add a little more honey. Too thick? Add a splash more water. Not enough kick? Stir in extra black pepper or a pinch of cayenne.

Step 6: Serve

Pour into glasses. Garnish with a thin slice of ginger, a sprig of mint or cilantro, or a lemon wheel. Drink immediately for the best flavor and nutrient content.