Lupine and I spent the morning prepping two small, personalized batches of digestive bitters. We enjoy drinking them in either carbonated or still water before meals, boosting our digestion and giving us something to sip on while we cook. I've been dealing with some persistent eczema since fall, and I'm certain that better digestion will be key to healing that from the inside out.
If you're looking for inspiration for crafting your own bitters, our ingredients lists (sans quantities, since we measured nothing!) is below. Mine also contained a pinch of dried elecampane root that I neglected to add to the list.
I suppose this can also serve is a working demonstration of what unschooling or interest-led learning looks like, since the whole project was learning-by-doing, and as a bonus Lupine decided this was the opportunity she's been waiting for to practice her cursive. (She asked me to practice mine, too, and I happily obliged.)
If you need more than this rough list, my basic how-to can be found in Taproot WEAVE (along with the knitting patter for the green and purple hats that several of you asked about from my Instagram over the past week or so). That issue is almost sold out though, so don't wait if it's on your wish list!
Edited to add: Taproot WEAVE sold out in a hurry. If you're looking for another resource for DIY bitters, this book looks promising! (Afflink.)
What magic is happening in your kitchen this week?
Rachel! I’ve been reading your blog for a few years now. I continue to be amazed by your creativity and approach to well being and life! Your family sounds so cool! Can you tell me more about digestive bitters? I’ve seen them in the stores but never thought much about them. It’s amazing that you make them with Lupine, such a fun activity together! She doesn’t mind the taste? Where do you recommend one starts with making bitters? What’s the best book for a beginner?
Thank you!
Lena
Hi Lena! I went into detail in the article I wrote for Taproot (linked above), but essentially bitter flavors stimulate your digestive system to improve digestion and nutrient absorption and reduce stomach upset. This book, but the founders of Urban Moonshine looks promising. I havent laid my hands on it yet, but I do trust and appreciate their work. (Thats an afflink, FYI.) Hope its helpful for you!
Rachel, thank you very much for your reply. Are you referring to this book “DIY Bitters: Reviving the Forgotten Flavor – A Guide to Making Your Own Bitters for Bartenders, Cocktail Enthusiasts, Herbalists, and More”
I looked it up on Amazon (your link didn’t work :))
That’s the book, Lena! Here’s another link if anyone else needs it: http://amzn.to/2CNBfyD