Drinks
This recipe uses a special method where sugar and lemon are rubbed together to release their taste. Combined with fresh juice and cold water, it creates a balanced, tasty drink. It’s natural and simple to prepare.
Ingredients :
- Zest of 4 lemons (organic/unwaxed if possible)
- Juice of 3 lemons (approx. 1 cup)
- 8-10 tablespoons sugar (approx. 1/2 to 3/4 cup, adjust to taste)
- 6 cups cold water
- Optional: A handful of fresh mint leaves
- For serving: Ice cubes and lemon slices
Preparation :
- Wash the lemons thoroughly. Grate the zest of 4 lemons into a large bowl. IMPORTANT: Grate only the yellow outer layer, avoid the bitter white pith underneath.
- Add the sugar over the lemon zest.
- The Secret Step: Rub and massage the sugar and zest together vigorously with your hands for 3-5 minutes. The sugar should turn yellow and look like wet sand as it extracts the essential oils.
- Pour in the 6 cups of water and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Cover the bowl and let it wait in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to combine.
- After waiting time, squeeze the lemons (use the ones you zested) and add the fresh lemon juice into the mixture.
- Strain the lemonade into a pitcher to remove the zest particles for a smooth drink.
- Taste and add more sugar if it's too tart.
- Serve ice-cold, with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices.
