This lemonade combines the bitter freshness of grapefruit with the sharp kick of ginger. The syrup extracts the flavors from the ginger without the heat dominating – perfect for hot days or as a base for alcoholic variations. A drink that impresses through balance: sweet, sour, spicy and refreshing all in one.
And here’s what you need for the Grapefruit-Ginger Lemonade
200 g sugar
250 ml water (for the syrup)
60 g fresh ginger (peeled and grated)
375 ml freshly squeezed grapefruit juice (about 3–4 grapefruits)
1.5 l cold water
Ice cubes as needed
Grapefruit slices and ginger strips for garnishing
What matters
The trick lies in the ginger: Do not cook it for too long, otherwise it will turn bitter. Instead, let the syrup steep – this way the heat remains fresh and aromatic. For a more intense flavor, lightly press the ginger before grating to release more juice. Important: Always use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, as pasteurized juice often tastes flat and loses its acidity. For a clear lemonade, strain the syrup twice or use a cloth.
Variations
- Alcoholic variation with Gin — Add 4 cl London Dry Gin per glass and top up with the lemonade. The gin enhances the citrus notes and gives the drink a spicy depth. Garnish with a grapefruit slice and a pinch of black pepper.
- Spicy variation with Chili — Add a thin slice of fresh chili (e.g., Bird’s Eye) to the syrup and let it steep. Remove before serving to control the heat. Pairs especially well with a pinch of salt on the glass rim.
- Light variation with Honey — Replace the sugar with 150 g liquid honey. The honey rounds off the acidity of the grapefruit and gives the lemonade a floral note. Particularly good with mint leaves as garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the ginger syrup in advance?
Yes, the syrup keeps in the refrigerator for about a week. Simply store it in a clean jar and shake before use. Otherwise the ginger will settle at the bottom.
Why does my lemonade taste watery?
Probably too much water was used or the grapefruit juice was not freshly squeezed. Make sure the juice is concentrated – preferably from pink or red grapefruits, which are sweeter. If necessary, add a bit more syrup.
Can I replace the ginger with ginger powder?
No, the powder only provides heat, not the fresh aroma. If no fresh ginger is available, better use ginger juice from the health food store – about 2 cl per liter of lemonade.
