Description
This refreshing mint juice combines fresh mint leaves, sugar, and lemon juice for a thirst-quenching drink perfect for hot days. Easy to prepare, it offers a burst of flavor and health benefits, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. Enjoy it chilled or over ice, garnished with mint sprigs for an extra touch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Mint sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the Mint Leaves: Rinse the fresh mint leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of sugar with 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves (about 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
- Blend the Mint: In a blender, add the washed mint leaves and the cooled sugar syrup. Blend on high speed until the mint is finely chopped and the mixture is well combined (about 30 seconds to 1 minute).
- Strain the Mixture: Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the blended mint mixture into a bowl or pitcher. Press down with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the leftover mint pulp.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the strained mint juice to add a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the mint juice and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or syrup if desired. If its too sweet, add a little more lemon juice.
- Chill the Juice: Chill the mint juice in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or serve immediately over ice cubes.
- Pour into Glasses: Fill your favorite glasses with the mint juice. If using ice cubes, add them before pouring the juice.
- Garnish: Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint for an appealing presentation and enhanced aroma.
- Enjoy: Sip slowly and enjoy the vibrant color and refreshing scent of your homemade mint juice.
- Transfer to a Container: Pour any leftover mint juice into an airtight container or a glass jar with a lid.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as some separation may occur.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: Freeze mint juice in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a zip-top bag for later use in drinks.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness of the mint juice according to your preference.
- For a more intense mint flavor, use more mint leaves.
- This mint juice can be a great addition to cocktails or mocktails.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes