Description
This invigorating Ginger Lemonade blends fresh lemon juice with homemade ginger syrup for a refreshing drink perfect for warm days. It’s easy to make and can be customized with additional herbs or spices for a unique twist. Enjoy it chilled over ice, garnished with mint and lemon slices.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups water (divided)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Thin lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of sliced fresh ginger and 1 cup of water. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes to infuse the ginger flavor.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the ginger pieces using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, leaving you with ginger-infused water.
- Return the strained ginger water to the saucepan and add 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir over low heat until the sugar completely dissolves (about 2-3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let the ginger syrup cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks if making ahead.
- Roll each lemon on the countertop with your palm to release the juices.
- Cut the lemons in half and use a citrus juicer or reamer to extract the juice, removing any seeds.
- Measure out 1 cup of fresh lemon juice and set aside.
- In a large pitcher, combine the cooled ginger syrup and fresh lemon juice. Stir well.
- Add the remaining 3 cups of water to the pitcher, adjusting based on your preferred strength of flavor.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary, adding more sugar or syrup as desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the chilled ginger lemonade over the ice, filling the glass about three-quarters full.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a thin slice of lemon if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño to the ginger syrup while it simmers.
- You can also experiment with other herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes