Egyptian Mint Lemonade, also known as “limonana,” is a refreshing beverage that is a staple in the hot summer months of the Middle East. This drink, cherished for its cooling properties, is a delightful mix of fresh mint and zesty lemon, offering a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors.
Mint has been integral to Egyptian cuisine for centuries, particularly in beverages. This drink not only quenches your thirst but also comes with a host of health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, mint aids digestion, while lemon provides a hefty dose of vitamin C, making this drink both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 5 large bunches of green mint
- 3 cups sugar
- 1 ½ cups water
- ½ teaspoon lemon salt
- 2 drops of green food coloring (optional)
- Ice
- Fresh lemon slices
- Soda water
Preparation
- Wash the mint thoroughly and dry it with a towel.
- Pick the mint leaves along with their tender green stems. Mince them finely for maximum flavor extraction.
- In a large pot, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium fire, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.
- Once boiling, add the finely chopped mint to the sugar syrup. Stir well and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cover the pot and let it cool completely, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to absorb fully.
- Strain the mixture using a fine sieve to remove all solid remnants, ensuring a clear syrup.
- Return the strained syrup to a high heat until it begins to boil. Lower the heat and add the lemon salt, boiling for another minute.
- Turn off the fire and allow it to cool slightly. Add two drops of green food coloring and stir well.
- Pour the syrup into sterilized jars for storage.
- Prepare a glass with ice, 2-3 tablespoons of the mint syrup, fresh lemon juice, and soda water. Garnish with lemon slices and mint sprigs.
Did you know?
Limonana has fascinating origins. Legend has it that the name “limonana” was coined in the 1990s by an Israeli advertising campaign, but the drink has far deeper roots in the Middle East, including Egypt, where it is a summertime favorite. Not only is the drink visually appealing with its vivid green hue, but it is also incredibly versatile.
You can experiment by adding a splash of lime juice for extra zest, making it a lime lemonade variation. Mint is economical and widely available, making this drink budget-friendly. Moreover, mint and lemon are celebrated in Arabic culture for their myriad of health benefits. Mint is known for its cooling effect which helps to lower body temperature — a true asset in the scorching hot Middle Eastern climate.
Additionally, drinking this icy, tangy mint lemonade can serve as a natural remedy for ailments such as indigestion and headaches. Whether you’re trying to beat the heat or just in need of a delightful pick-me-up, Egyptian Mint Lemonade is sure to become a staple in your repertoire of refreshing beverages.
So next time you need a thirst-quencher, remember this Egyptian classic that brings together the best of summer’s flavors!
