Honey Lemon Ginger Throat Drops are the perfect little remedy to keep on hand during the colder months or whenever someone in your family feels a tickle in their throat. These delightful drops combine the soothing warmth of ginger, the bright tang of lemon, and the natural sweetness of honey to create a comforting treat. I always remember my grandmother making something similar whenever I had a sore throat, filling the kitchen with a cozy aroma that felt like home.
Why Make This Recipe
These throat drops are not only simple to make but also a wonderful way to enjoy the benefits of ginger and lemon, which are known for their soothing properties. Homemade throat drops can save you from relying on store-bought alternatives that may contain artificial ingredients. Plus, they make a thoughtful gift for friends and family, especially during the cold season.
"These throat drops are a game changer! I made a batch last week, and they are perfect for keeping those scratchy throats at bay," says a satisfied home baker.
How to Make Honey Lemon Ginger Throat Drops
Creating your own Honey Lemon Ginger Throat Drops is a surprisingly straightforward process. Start by brewing a strong batch of ginger tea, which forms the base of your drops. Once you have this, mix it with freshly squeezed lemon juice and raw honey. It’s essential to use a tall saucepan, as the mixture will foam up during cooking.
You’ll bring it to a boil, watching carefully until it reaches 149°C (300°F). This temperature is crucial for getting the right texture. After boiling, pour the mixture into molds and let them cool for a couple of hours until they solidify. Once set, dust them with powdered sugar to keep them from sticking together, and they’re ready to enjoy!
Ingredients
Gather these items to make your Honey Lemon Ginger Throat Drops:
- 240 ml hot and strongly brewed ginger tea
- 170 g raw honey
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
You can substitute raw honey with maple syrup if you’re looking for a vegan option. For a bit of added flavor, consider infusing your ginger tea with a cinnamon stick while brewing.
Directions
In a tall saucepan, combine the hot, strongly brewed ginger tea with fresh lemon juice and raw honey. Ensure the pan is tall to accommodate foam formation. Set the saucepan over medium to medium-high heat. Attach a candy thermometer to the side, ensuring it does not touch the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Stir frequently and carefully monitor until the temperature reaches 149°C (300°F), approximately 20–30 minutes. Adjust the heat if browning occurs too quickly. Immediately remove the saucepan from heat once 149°C is reached. Pour the mixture into silicone molds, working quickly before it begins to set. Allow the throat drops to cool and solidify in the molds for 1–2 hours, or longer if humidity is high. Once fully set, remove from molds and coat each piece in powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Sift away excess and store drops in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
How to Serve Honey Lemon Ginger Throat Drops
These throat drops are best enjoyed straight out of the container when you feel a scratchy throat or simply need a little comfort. They can be a delightful addition to a cozy evening at home with a cup of herbal tea. For a fun twist, consider wrapping them in small, decorative bags and giving them as gifts during the holidays or to friends taking care of sick family members.
How to Store
For optimal freshness, keep your Honey Lemon Ginger Throat Drops stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for up to two weeks, although they may begin to lose their potency over time. If you want to make a larger batch, these drops can easily be stored in the freezer for longer shelf life.
Tips to Make
Ensuring that your candy thermometer is correctly positioned is crucial for achieving the right texture in your throat drops. Stirring frequently while monitoring the temperature can prevent burning or sticking. If the mixture bubbles too much, reduce the heat slightly. For an added flavor kick, try experimenting with some freshly grated turmeric or cayenne for a spicier version.
Variations
Feel free to jazz up your throat drops with different flavors! You could add a little mint extract for a refreshing twist or even include some licorice root for its soothing properties. If you’re feeling adventurous, use different types of tea for the base, such as chamomile, for a sweeter profile.
FAQs
What should I do if my throat drops are too sticky?
If your drops seem too sticky, they may not have reached the correct temperature. Make sure to monitor the thermometer closely and pour them out promptly once they reach 149°C to avoid this issue.
Can I use powdered ginger instead of fresh ginger for the tea?
Yes, you can use powdered ginger for a quicker method, but fresh ginger provides a richer flavor and more health benefits.
How can I tell when the drops are fully set?
The throat drops should feel firm and solid to the touch. Allow extra time if your kitchen is warm or humid.
Are these throat drops suitable for children?
Yes, but it’s wise to consult with a pediatrician, especially for children under one year due to the use of honey.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you enjoyed making Honey Lemon Ginger Throat Drops, check out our other family-friendly recipes, such as our Protein Muffins or this delightful Mini Bento Cake Recipe.
For daily baking inspiration and more cozy recipes, visit us on Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/
Honey Lemon Ginger Throat Drops
Ingredients
Method
- In a tall saucepan, combine the hot ginger tea, fresh lemon juice, and raw honey.
- Set the saucepan over medium to medium-high heat, ensuring the pan is tall enough to accommodate the foam.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil.
- Stir frequently and monitor the temperature until it reaches 149°C (300°F), approximately 20–30 minutes.
- Once the temperature is reached, immediately remove the saucepan from heat.
- Quickly pour the mixture into silicone molds before it begins to set.
- Allow the throat drops to cool and solidify in the molds for 1–2 hours.
- Once fully set, remove the drops from molds and dust each piece with powdered sugar.