Description
Discover the recipe of mint lemonade! Learn to make a refreshing, homemade drink with fresh ingredients in 8 simple steps. Perfect for summer sipping!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups cold water
- 1 packed cup fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar completely dissolves. Once dissolved, remove from heat and let it cool completely.
2. Muddle the Mint: In a large pitcher, place the packed cup of fresh mint leaves. Pour the cooled simple syrup over the mint leaves. Using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently muddle the mint leaves in the syrup for about 30-60 seconds.
3. Add Lemon Juice: Pour the 1 ½ cups of freshly squeezed lemon juice into the pitcher with the mint and simple syrup.
4. Add Water and Stir: Now, add the 4 cups of cold water to the pitcher. Stir everything together really well to make sure all the flavors are combined.
5. Taste and Adjust: Taste your lemonade. Adjust sweetness by adding more simple syrup, or tartness with more lemon juice. Add more water if too concentrated.
6. Chill: For the best flavor, cover the pitcher and refrigerate your homemade mint lemonade for at least 1 hour.
7. Strain (Optional): If you prefer your lemonade without mint bits, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another pitcher before serving.
8. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour your chilled mint lemonade, and garnish with fresh lemon slices and extra mint sprigs.
Notes
Roll lemons before juicing for more juice. Don’t over-muddle mint to avoid bitterness. Simple syrup ensures smooth sweetness. Always taste and adjust to your preference. Chilling allows flavors to deepen. Variations include Strawberry, Ginger, Cucumber, or Tropical Mint Lemonade. Can be doubled or tripled for parties. Suitable for honey, agave, or sugar substitutes. Can be made sparkling with carbonated water.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks