The big question – Is lemongrass tea, or in this case, lemongrass refresher drink good for you? While research is still lacking, Doctors do know that lemongrass has anti-inflammatory benefits (Medicalnewstoday.com). This is not surprising news, coming from my perspective. Lemongrass was grown abundantly in our childhood garden. Not only was it “free” but usually we did not get sick. Needless to say, Mom made drinking lemongrass tea a daily ritual in our home.
Fast forward to nowadays, lemongrass is easily accessible via many natural or local grocery stores. Which makes it easy to pick up a few ounces and brew this amazingly delicious Lemongrass Refresher Drink. The addition of ginger, clementine and lime juices makes it even healthier.
Besides the anti-inflammatory benefits, what I love about this Lemongrass Refresher Drink, is its light and refreshing taste. While the clementine juice was somewhat sweet, the addition of raw honey evened out the flavor.
When making this refresher drink, don’t rush the process. Take the time to simmer the lemongrass first, before adding the ginger. The total simmer time is only ten minutes. Simmering the lemongrass and ginger together for the full ten minutes will result in a stronger ginger flavor. Moreover, completely cooling the hot liquid before adding the clementine and lime juices will create a balanced flavor profile.
A noteworthy point about this lemongrass refresher drink, is that the simmered lemongrass and ginger can be strained and sipped while hot. So be sure to make a large batch and use some to sip on as a lemongrass ginger tea. The tea base can be refrigerated for up to one week. Add the juices whenever ready to serve. Pour over ice and enjoy! How refreshing is that?
You may also want to try these drink recipes:
Refreshing Watermelon Spinach Smoothie
Lemongrass Refresher Drink
This homemade lemongrass refresher drink is not only delicious, but it is also healthy.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces lemongrass washed and chopped
- 1 -2 inch piece of ginger peeled and sliced
- 1-2 teaspoons raw organic honey (or to taste)
- 2 1/4 cups water
- 2 clementines juiced (about 2 ounces). May substitute freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 lime juiced. (about 1 ounces)
Instructions
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In a small saucepan or teapot, add the water and lemongrass. Bring to a boil using medium to medium high heat.
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Reduce heat once liquid boils. Simmer 5 minutes.
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Add in sliced ginger. Simmer 5 more minutes.
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Turn off the heat. Strain into a heat proof cup or jar.
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Add honey to taste while the liquid is still hot. Stir. Cool completely.
Note: I usually put the hot liquid in the freezer for 15 minutes to cool down quickly. Alternatively can cool quickly in an ice bath.
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Once the liquid is cool, Add the lime and clementine juices. Stir. Pour over a glass of ice and enjoy.
Note: Add some fresh clementine slices if desired. Enjoy!
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