Amla & Ginger Infused Water
This Amla & Ginger Infused Water is a refreshing, virtually calorie-free way to hydrate and enjoy the benefits of Indian gooseberry (amla) and ginger. It's perfect for curbing snack cravings and boosting your daily fluid intake.
For 4 servings
Thoroughly wash the fresh amla berries and the ginger root under cold running water. Pat them dry.
Using a sharp knife, thinly slice the amla berries. You can remove the seeds if desired, but they are generally small and can be left in. Peel the ginger root and then thinly slice it into rounds or julienne strips.
Place the sliced amla and ginger into a clean 1-liter pitcher or a large glass jar.
If using, gently bruise the fresh mint leaves by clapping them between your palms or lightly crushing them with a spoon, then add them to the pitcher.
Pour the 1 liter of cold filtered water over the amla, ginger, and mint in the pitcher.
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse. For a stronger, more pronounced flavor, infuse overnight (8-12 hours).
Strain the infused water before serving, or leave the ingredients in for continuous infusion and a more aesthetic presentation. Serve chilled.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For maximum flavor extraction, ensure your amla and ginger are thinly sliced. More surface area means better infusion.
- 2Adjust infusion time based on your preference. A longer infusion (up to 24 hours) will yield a more potent flavor, but avoid infusing for too long as some flavors can become bitter.
- 3Always use filtered water for the best taste. Tap water can sometimes have off-flavors that detract from the delicate infusion.
- 4You can reuse the amla and ginger slices for a second, lighter infusion. Simply refill the pitcher with fresh water and refrigerate for another 4-6 hours.
Adapt it for your goals.
Citrus Boost
Add a few slices of lemon or lime along with the amla and ginger for an extra tangy and refreshing kick.
Sweet & SpicySweet & Spicy
For a touch of sweetness, add a teaspoon of raw honey or a few drops of stevia to your glass before drinking. For more spice, add a pinch of black pepper.
Warm InfusionWarm Infusion
Instead of cold water, pour hot (not boiling) water over the ingredients and let it steep for 15-20 minutes for a comforting warm beverage, then strain and enjoy.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Amla (Indian gooseberry) is an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
Aids Digestion
Both amla and ginger are known for their digestive properties. Ginger can help soothe an upset stomach, while amla supports healthy bowel movements.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Ginger contains compounds like gingerol that have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh amla is preferred for infused water, you can use a very small amount (1/4 tsp) of amla powder. However, it might make the water cloudy and alter the taste slightly, so strain thoroughly.
