Classic and Mint Lemonades
Classic and Mint Lemonades are so refreshing on a hot summer day. With its tangy citrus flavour, lemonade has long been a drink people of all ages enjoy. Many of us associate summer memories with carefree days spent outdoors, chasing adventures and seeking refuge from the sweltering heat. Classic and Mint Lemonades reign as the ultimate elixir of nostalgia in my childhood summers.
The mint lemonade offers a unique twist on the traditional recipe. Gently crushing or muddling the mint leaves releases their essential oils, which are rich in compounds like menthol. These compounds impart a cooling sensation and a refreshing minty flavour. This harmonizes beautifully with the tanginess of freshly squeezed lemons. This fusion of flavours provides a rejuvenating experience with every sip. Its vibrant green hue, aromatic mint aroma, and tangy-sweet flavour profile make it as visually appealing as it is delicious. In mint lemonade, the mint acts as a counterbalance to the tartness of the lemons, adding a subtle sweetness and a hint of herbal complexity.
While lemonade is perfect for summer, warm up in the winter with a comforting cup of creamy chocolate milk!
Sparkling water/Ice water/Club soda – Which one to choose?
When it comes to choosing the perfect base for your lemonade, the decision between sparkling water, club soda, or ice water depends largely on the personal preference of the final drink. Each option offers unique qualities that can influence the taste and overall experience of the lemonade.
Sparkling Water:
It adds effervescence and a subtle fizz to the lemonade, creating a lively and refreshing drink. It can add a touch of elegance to the lemonade, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or when serving guests.
Club Soda:
It is similar to sparkling water but often contains added minerals, such as sodium bicarbonate, which can contribute to its slightly salty taste. Club soda’s effervescence can help lift the flavours of the lemonade, making it taste brighter and more refreshing.
Ice Water:
Ice water is a simple option that provides hydration without altering the flavour or texture of the lemonade. It can be a good choice if you prefer a milder and less carbonated drink, allowing the flavours of the lemonade to shine through. Ice water is readily available and easy to prepare, making it a convenient option for everyday enjoyment.
Classic and Mint Lemonades
Ingredients
- Lemon juice
- Powdered sugar
- Pinch of black salt
- Pinch of cumin powder
- Pinch of salt
- Ice-cold water/sparkling water/club soda
- Ice cubes
Mint Lemonade
- Mint leaves
- Sugar
- Ice cubes
- Ice-cold water/sparkling water/club soda
- Lemon juice
- Lemon slices for garnish optional
Instructions
Classic lemonade
- Wash the lemons thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Roll each lemon firmly on a countertop using the palm of your hand. This helps to soften the lemon and makes it easier to extract juice.
- Cut the lemons in half crosswise using a sharp knife.
- Squeeze the lemon halves using a citrus juicer, reamer, or your hands to extract the juice. If you’re using your hands, be sure to strain the juice afterwards to remove any seeds or pulp.
- Add powdered sugar or your favourite sweetener, cumin powder, black salt and salt to the lemon juice.
- Add ice-cold water or a splash of sparkling water or club soda for some fizz and stir them all well to ensure that the added sugar is fully dissolved.
- Serve the lemon juice over ice for a refreshing drink.
- Enjoy your freshly made lemon juice!
Mint lemonade
- In a blender or food processor, combine the mint leaves, lemon juice, sugar, ice cubes and ¼ cup water. Blend and strain them.
- Add a little of this mint concentrate to the glass and top up with ice-cold water or a splash of sparkling water or club soda for some fizz and stir them all well.
- Alternatively, you can add normal-temperature water and chill the mint lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavours to meld together.
- Before serving, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the mint lemonade over the ice.
- Garnish each glass with fresh mint and a slice of lemon, if desired.
- Stir gently before drinking to incorporate any settled mint leaves or flavours.
- Serve and enjoy your refreshing mint lemonade!
Notes
