This lemonade is no gentle summer drink, but a sharp, invigorating brew. The ginger is not grated, but infused in thin slices – this way, it releases its heat slowly without dominating. The peppermint stays fresh when added to the glass just before serving. Honey dissolves better if stirred with a little warm water beforehand. Perfect for days when you want more than just to quench your thirst.
And this is what you need for the Ginger Lemon Peppermint Lemonade
4 organic lemons (approx. 120 ml juice)
1 large piece of ginger (approx. 5 cm, unpeeled)
1 handful fresh peppermint leaves (approx. 10 g)
4 tbsp honey (approx. 80 g)
1 litre still water
Ice cubes for serving
This is what matters
Do not discard the ginger slices, but press them with a spoon before they go into the glass. This releases essential oils that would otherwise remain in the ginger. For a spicier taste, cut the ginger into even thinner slices or let it soak in the lemon juice for 10 minutes before adding the water. The lemonade tastes best after chilling in the fridge for 30 minutes – but not longer, otherwise the mint loses its freshness.
Variations
- Spicy variation with chili — slice 1 fresh red chili into thin rings and add to the water with the ginger. The heat builds up slowly and pairs perfectly with the ginger.
- Gin twist — add 4 cl London Dry Gin per glass over the ice cubes before pouring the lemonade. The gin emphasizes the herbal notes of the mint and rounds off the spiciness.
- Sparkling version — replace still water with 1 litre cold carbonated mineral water. The fizz enhances the freshness of the mint and makes the drink even more invigorating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I also grate the ginger?
Yes, but then the lemonade will turn cloudy and the heat will be immediate – not slowly building. Grated ginger is better suited for quick preparations where clarity is not important.
How long does the lemonade keep in the fridge?
For a maximum of 24 hours. After that, the mint loses its aroma and the ginger turns bitter. It’s best to always prepare it fresh and only prepare ingredients that keep well (e.g. ginger slices and lemon juice).
Can I use agave syrup instead of honey?
Yes, but honey gives a slight floral note that agave syrup does not have. If you use agave syrup, use 10 % less as it is sweeter.
