Limonana is an Israeli variant of lemonade that combines lemons with that middle-Eastern classic, spearmint. This is quite possibly, one of the most refreshing drinks you can make and is great during the South African (or any other) summer. Just make sure you have plenty of ice on hand! I think this is a great non-alcoholic Christmas drink (in the Southern Hemisphere at least).
Prep time 10 minutes/Cook time 10 minutes/Serves 4
Ingredients:
100g (1/2 cup) white sugar
100ml (2/5 cup) fresh lemon juice
Plenty of ice
15g (1/2 cup, lightly packed) mint leaves, plus extra sprigs to garnish
Sparkling water, to top up
Lemon slices, to garnish
Method:
Place the sugar in a pan with 100ml (2/5 cup) water, heat gently, stirring, until the sugar has dissolved completely. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook for 3 minutes then take off the heat and stir through the lemon juice. Set aside until completely cooled.
Once the syrup is cold place in a blender with the mint leaves and plenty of ice. Blitz the mixture to a slush then divide equally between 4 tall glasses. Top up with sparkling water, garnish with mint sprigs and a slice of lemon and serve.
