Ingredients
- Mint simple syrup: sugar, water, fresh mint leaves and stems, salt
- Lemonade base: fresh lemon juice, cold water, additional fresh mint for muddling, ice
- Garnish: fresh mint sprigs, lemon wheels, optional berries, cucumber, sparkling water
- Alternatives: honey, maple syrup, agave, stevia, monk fruit for sweetener; various flavor additions
Instructions
Make mint simple syrup by dissolving sugar in water over medium heat. Remove from heat, add mint, muddle gently, cover and steep 30 minutes to 1 hour. Strain and cool completely. In large pitcher, muddle fresh mint leaves with small amount of cooled mint syrup. Add fresh lemon juice and half the water. Gradually add mint syrup to taste, then remaining water. Chill thoroughly for 1+ hours. Serve over ice in tall glasses, garnished with mint sprigs and lemon wheels. For fizzy version, top with sparkling water.
Notes
Always use fresh lemon juice and fresh mint—no substitutes. Cool mint syrup completely before mixing. Adjust sweetness gradually, tasting as you go. Ice dilutes drink slightly—account for this. Strain out muddled mint before storing. Keeps 2-3 days refrigerated. Make mint syrup up to 3 weeks ahead. For concentrated version, reduce water by half, add water when serving. Slap mint garnish between hands to release oils.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Steeping, Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: International, Middle Eastern-inspired, American
- Diet: Vegan