When my husband and I were honeymooning in Ashville, NC, we came across a place that served elixirs. Each drink contained herbs sourced from a local herb farmer, fresh juices (like strawberry or basil), agave, and soda water. I've been dying to recreate them for a while now, but I held off because I don't have any fresh herbs (like ginkgo, kava, or burdock) at the ready! (And I don't know if I ever will!) Finally, I decided that a highly concentrated juice with some creative flavor combinations (like carrot and vanilla) would have to do.
This Immunity Boosting Elixir contains simple ingredients to boost your glow and your health. Alternatively, if you're feeling a little naughty, you could combine your elixir with tonic water and vodka for a fun, refreshing cocktail. Even if you skip the alcohol, these little shots of goodness could be fun "appetizer drinks" at a party. Or--if you're feeling a bit under the weather, an immunity boosting elixir would make the perfect thing to coat your throat--just add a bit more coconut nectar to give it a more syrupy feel.
Regardless of how you choose to enjoy your elixir, your body can look forward to getting an easily absorbable dose of the vitamin C-rich juices of carrot and lemon, the amino-rich deliciousness of naturally low-sugar coconut nectar, and the anti-inflammatory properties of fresh ginger.
YIELDS
about 1.5 ounces (1 serving)
PREP TIME
COOK TIME
TOTAL TIME
- juice of 1 lemon
- 1/8 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 fresh ginger, peeled
- 1 small carrot, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cold, filtered water to thin elixir (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon raw coconut nectar (optional)
Directions
1. If you have a juicer, juice the lemon, carrot, and ginger. If you don't have a juicer, blend (or very finely chop) the carrot and ginger. Press the lemon juice into a small container. Using a fine mesh strainer, muddle the carrot, ginger, and lemon juice until a bright orange juice is yielded. (The pulp may be used in a stir fry or soup.)
2. In a small container, whisk together muddled juice, vanilla extract, and raw coconut nectar (if using). If the mixture is a bit thick, add filtered water to thin. Use a funnel to pour the liquid into a shot glass. The elixir may be sipped (my preference) or taken like a shot.
3. If you'd like, the elixir may be combined with a shot of clear alcohol (vodka or gin will do). Add a generous splash of tonic water and serve over crushed ice in an old fashioned glass (6-8 oz.).
More healthy drinks: Blackberry Mint Spritzer
How to Make the Best Low-Sugar Green Juice Recipe
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Photos: Mary Hood Luttrell
How to Make the Best Low-Sugar Green Juice Recipe
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