Jane’s Journal

Mint, Ginger and Lemon Refresher

This is a summer version of my catch-all recipe for colds – and aren’t summer colds the worst? But this actually makes a lovely refreshing summer drink too.

It is particularly good as an adult non-alcoholic drink for parties. The ginger gives it a good sharpness, so it isn’t cloying.

You can make it with any kind of mint – I always have a glut of applemint as I foolishly planted it in a bed rather than a pot, and it has taken over.

Ingredients

• Good handful of mint, chopped (any variety will do)
• Chunky lump of ginger grated finely (about 10cm)
• 2 lemons zested, 1 of them juiced
• 1tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 litre of boiling water
• (if you have a cold – 1tbsp unpasteurised cider vinegar)

Method

Mix the mint, ginger, lemon zest and sugar with the water in a heat proof jug.

Stir until the sugar dissolves then add honey and lemon juice.

Stir to combine and leave to cool completely.

Taste and adjust the sweetness – you might need more lemon, you might need more sugar. If you are a fighting a cold, this is the point to add in the vinegar.

Refrigerate and serve over ice or gently heat as a warm drink. If you have added vinegar, you don’t want to let it boil.

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