Walking down the bustling downtown streets, trying to hold my skirt down from the blistering wind, the natives walk by not taking notice of the only people-watcher in their midst. It’s bewildering how many business men and women, students, and tourists are effectively sipping on their green straws while texting with one hand, as they maneuver through the sidewalks and flashing traffic signs. I observe and sigh in envy, as I too want that ice-cold, tangy, fragrant thirst-quencher. Alas, I relentlessly give in, as I approach the newly renovated and all-the-more enticing establishment at the corner of Bloor and Jarvis. I go in and feign my proficiency in the art of ordering to the best of my ability. “Tall Tazo Shaken Iced Green Tea Lemonade, please”. I give up my newly registered cash card, and once returned back to the rightful owner, I quickly move off to the side. After what seems to be a perfected process, I get the product of my $5 investment. I proudly pick up my oasis, head out the front door with my head held high, shake my leg as I wait for the lights to change, carefully cross the street, and just as I arrive at the entrance of my office building, I slurp, but all I get is air and drops of melted ice water. My $5 summer drink, didn’t even last 5 minutes. Sigh. I look at the residual value of my investment, a cup half full of ice with distinguished calligraphy on the side. At least they spelled my name right…
***
Upon reflection, I decided it’s time to make my own satisfying homemade iced green tea lemonade. It requires some time and effort, but it’s a great refreshing treat for your family and friends at your next BBQ.
Berry-Infused Iced Green Tea Lemonade
Ingredients:
- green tea leaves (I use Jasmine green tea leaves from TenRen, so lovely and fragrant)
- your favourite organic unpasteurized honey
- freshly squeezed lemon/lime juice
- optional add-ins for flavour and presentation: mint leaves, frozen mixed berries, your favourite frozen fruits
- lots and lots of ice
- and of course water
Unperfected but Equally Satisfying Process:
- Boil hot water (quantity depends on number of servings required)
- Drop in some green tea leaves into a teapot with infuser, and pour hot water in
- Steep for at least 5 minutes or as desired (I like my tea to come out strong)
- Let the tea cool a little
- Pour tea into pitcher or drink dispenser (if you’re having a big party)
- Add in some cold water (you can try 70% hot tea, 30% cold water)
- Squeeze in lemon/lime juice as desired
- Mix in some honey as desired
- Stir well
- Drop in in your optional add-ins (I like to stir my frozen mixed berries into the cold water I add to the tea in the step above, and mix it well, so that the tea gets infused with a nice berry flavour)
- Now comes the tricky part, add in lots of ice to the pitcher/dispenser itself, you want the drink to be cold, but not dilute the awesome flavour
- Keep on playing with the ingredients until you achieve your desired taste
- Display your homemade oasis to your guests
- Add ice to the individual serving cups and pour out the goodness
- Sip right off the rim or add a straw
- Breathe in the aroma of the jasmine and mint, and allow all your senses to appreciate the product of your hard work
There’s something so satisfying about homemade, and best of all it’s made from all-natural ingredients. Enjoy!
-FROM ONE UNRULY KITCHEN TO YOURS
Kitchen Unruly 