Quench your thirst with this homemade natural fruit drink that bursts with flavor and provides a refreshing boost of hydration
Are you tired of sugary sodas and artificially flavored drinks? Say goodbye to store-bought beverages and hello to this homemade natural fruit drink that will tantalize your taste buds and keep you hydrated all day long. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious and healthy drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or anytime you need a refreshing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- 2 liters of water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by slicing the cucumber, lemons, and apple into thin slices.
- Boil the Water: In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil.
- Infuse with Fruits: Once the water is boiling, add half of the lemon slices and the apple slices (with the core removed) to the pot.
- Cover and Simmer: Cover the pot with a lid and allow the fruit to simmer in the boiling water for 7 minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: After 7 minutes, add the remaining lemon slices and cucumber slices to the pot.
- Let Cool: Allow the infused water to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a decanter or pitcher.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the natural fruit drink for at least 2 hours to chill before serving.
- Pour and Enjoy: Pour yourself a glass of this refreshing drink, garnish with additional fruit slices if desired, and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Enhance Flavor: For added flavor, you can add a few sprigs of fresh mint or a dash of ginger to the infused water.
- Sweeten Naturally: If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the infused water while it is still warm to dissolve.
- Experiment with Fruits: Feel free to experiment with different fruits such as oranges, strawberries, or raspberries to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Keto-Friendly and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto-Friendly Version:
- Omit the apple slices to reduce the carb content of the drink.
- Use keto-friendly sweeteners such as stevia or erythritol if desired.
- Ensure the infused water fits within your daily carb allowance while following a keto diet.
Low-Carb Version:
- Substitute the apple slices with low-carb fruits such as berries or grapefruit.
- Limit the amount of lemon slices to reduce the carb content further.
- Customize the infused water to include low-carb ingredients that align with your dietary preferences.
FAQs:
Q: Can I drink this fruit-infused water hot or cold? A: While this drink is traditionally served chilled, you can enjoy it warm if you prefer. Simply skip the refrigeration step and drink it immediately after steeping.
Q: How long will this fruit-infused water last in the refrigerator? A: This natural fruit drink can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and flavor.
Q: Can I reuse the fruit slices to make another batch of infused water? A: Yes, you can reuse the fruit slices to make a second batch of infused water. Simply add fresh water to the pot and let the ingredients steep again for another refreshing drink.
With its vibrant flavors and natural ingredients, this homemade fruit drink is a delightful alternative to sugary beverages and artificially flavored drinks. Whether you’re looking to stay hydrated, quench your thirst, or simply enjoy a refreshing beverage, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Sip on this delicious drink and savor the taste of summer all year round!