Connection Summer 2014 | Page 20

FOOD & FUN strawberry mint lemonade Refreshing mint adds a twist to this strawberry lemonade, found on A Sweet Pea Chef ingredients 2 cups plus 5 cups water, separated 2 cups granulated sugar 2 1/2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice 15-20 frozen strawberries 6-8 fresh mint leaves instructions In a medium sauce pan, combine 2 cups of the water and the 2 cups of sugar. Heat over medium-high heat until sugar completely dissolves, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set this simple syrup aside to cool. Heat the frozen strawberries in the microwave until thawed, approximately 30-45 seconds. Once thawed, muddle (mush) the strawberries until they are all mushed and you have made a thick strawberry paste. If you like larger chunks of fruit, don’t mush the strawberries as much. In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, the strawberries, and the remaining 5 cups water. Stir to combine. Add about half of the simple syrup into the mixture and stir to combine. Continue to add the simple syrup, ¼ cup at a time, until the lemonade reaches your desired level of sweetness. I tend to use most of my simple syrup, but it really depends on the lemons and the strawberries. Add the fresh mint leaves and stir again. If possible, place the lemonade mixture in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. 20 21