- Why is my lemonade pink?
- That's natural! Lavender pigments (anthocyanins) turn pinkish in acidic environments (lemon juice). It's a natural pH indicator.
- Can I use honey?
- Yes, but honey has a strong flavor that might mask the lavender. Use acacia or light honey for a neutral taste.
Sparkling Lavender Lemonade
This isn't just lemon water; it's an infusion using lavender's calming character to counterpoint citrus acidity. The process involves brewing a 'tea' to extract flavors, then diluting it. It's a perfect example of elevating a simple refresher into a gourmet experience with the right technique.
Ingredients
2/3
cup
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (approx. 3-4 lemons)
1/4
cup
Granulated sugar
1
cup
Water (for syrup)
2
cups
Cold water or club soda (for topping)
1
tbsp
Dried lavender buds
2
cups
Ice cubes
4
slices
Lemon wheels (garnish)
4
sprigs
Fresh lavender (garnish)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Small saucepan
- Strainer
- Large pitcher
- Lemon squeezer
- Wooden spoon
Instructions
1
✓
Boil 1 cup of water with the sugar in a small saucepan. Once boiling, remove from heat and immediately add dried lavender.
Tip: We are creating a base infusion. Hot water extracts oils efficiently without cooking the flowers to mush.
2
✓
Cover and let steep for 15 minutes until completely cool.
Tip: Keeping it covered prevents volatile aromas from escaping with steam.
3
✓
Strain the cooled syrup into a pitcher. Press flowers to extract liquid, then discard.
Tip: Straining ensures a silky drink without floating bits.
4
✓
Pour in the fresh lemon juice. Watch the color change!
Tip: Citric acid reacts with lavender pigments, often creating a lovely pinkish hue.
5
✓
Dilute with cold water or soda to taste. Taste and adjust.
Tip: Always add diluent to the concentrate; it's easier to balance.
6
✓
Fill glasses with ice, pour lemonade over, and garnish with lemon wheels and lavender sprigs.
Tip: Plenty of ice keeps it cold without melting too fast and watering it down.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup Freshly squeezed lemon juice (approx. 3-4 lemons)
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Water (for syrup)
- 2 cups Cold water or club soda (for topping)
- 1 tbsp Dried lavender buds
- 2 cups Ice cubes
- 4 slices Lemon wheels (garnish)
- 4 sprigs Fresh lavender (garnish)