Introduction
This refreshing rhubarb and ginger soda is a delightful summer drink, perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings. The tangy flavor of rhubarb pairs beautifully with the aromatic spice of ginger, sweetened with honey or agave, and brightened by fresh lemon and mint. This recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a colorful and visually appealing presentation when served.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 400g rhubarb
– 5cm piece of ginger
– 2 tablespoons good quality honey (or maple syrup or agave)
– 2 lemons
– 1 bunch of fresh mint (30g)
– Soda water, to serve
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Yield
Serves approximately 4-6 people
Method
1. Roughly chop the rhubarb and peel and finely grate the ginger.
2. Place the rhubarb and ginger in a medium pan, pour in 400ml of water, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for 10 minutes, or until the rhubarb is very soft.
3. Leave to cool, then strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, using the back of a spoon to push through all the flavor. Discard the leftover stringy bits.
4. Stir the honey into the sieved juice to create a syrup.
5. Slice the lemons into wedges, pick most of the mint leaves (reserving a few for garnish), and place them in a large serving jug. Muddle together to release their juice.
6. Pour the syrup into the jug, then top up with ice and soda water.
7. Taste and adjust with a little more honey if you prefer it sweeter.
8. Finish with the reserved mint leaves.
Top Tip
For an impressive presentation, use a speed-peeler to peel off strips of rhubarb and spiral them around your serving glasses.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Roughly chop the rhubarb into smaller pieces. Peel the ginger and finely grate it to release its flavor.
Step 2: Combine in a Pan
In a medium-sized pan, add the chopped rhubarb and grated ginger. Pour in 400ml of water and place the pan over medium heat.
Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for about 10 minutes. This will soften the rhubarb significantly.
Step 4: Strain the Juice
Once the rhubarb is very soft, remove the pan from heat and let it cool slightly. Then, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing down with the back of a spoon to extract all the juice. Discard any leftover stringy bits.
Step 5: Create the Syrup
Add the honey to the sieved juice while it is still warm. Stir well to dissolve the honey completely and create a syrup.
Step 6: Prepare the Serving Jug
Slice the lemons into wedges and pick the mint leaves from the stems, reserving a few for garnish. Place the lemon wedges and most of the mint leaves into a large serving jug. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently muddle them together, releasing their juices.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Pour the prepared syrup into the jug with the lemon and mint. Add ice cubes to fill the jug, then top it off with soda water.
Step 8: Taste and Adjust
Taste the mixture and add more honey if desired for additional sweetness. Stir gently to combine.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finish the drink by adding the reserved mint leaves as a garnish. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
Notes
Tip for Presentation
For an impressive presentation, use a speed-peeler to create thin strips of rhubarb and spiral them around your serving glasses.
Cook techniques
Chopping Rhubarb
Roughly chop the rhubarb into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking and better flavor extraction during simmering.
Peeling and Grating Ginger
Peel the ginger root before grating it finely. This helps release the essential oils and flavors more effectively.
Simmering Ingredients
Gently simmer the rhubarb and ginger in water to soften the rhubarb and create a flavorful juice. Keep the heat low to prevent boiling.
Straining Juice
Use a fine mesh sieve to strain the cooked mixture, pressing down with the back of a spoon to extract maximum flavor from the rhubarb and ginger while discarding any solids.
Creating Syrup
Mix honey into the strained juice, stirring until fully dissolved to form a sweet syrup that will enhance the drink’s flavor.
Muddling Ingredients
Gently muddle lemon wedges and mint leaves in a jug to release their juices and oils, creating a more aromatic drink.
Serving with Soda Water
Combine the syrup with ice and soda water in the jug, allowing the flavors to meld together for a refreshing beverage.
Adjusting Sweetness
Taste the drink before serving and add more honey if a sweeter flavor is desired.
Presentation with Rhubarb Peels
For a decorative touch, use a speed-peeler to create thin strips of rhubarb and spiral them around serving glasses.
FAQ
Can I use frozen rhubarb for this recipe?
Yes, frozen rhubarb can be used, but ensure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before cooking.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup are excellent alternatives for sweetening the drink.
How long can I store the rhubarb syrup?
The rhubarb syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.
Can I make this drink non-carbonated?
Absolutely! You can serve it without soda water for a non-carbonated option.
Is it possible to add other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries to enhance the flavor profile of the drink.
Conclusion
This refreshing rhubarb and ginger drink, sweetened with honey and brightened with lemon and mint, is an ideal way to cool down on a warm day. It’s not only delicious but also offers a blend of flavors that is both comforting and invigorating.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Rhubarb and Strawberry Fizz
Combine rhubarb with fresh strawberries for a vibrant twist. Follow the same method, substituting half of the rhubarb with strawberries for added sweetness.
Ginger Lemonade
Skip the rhubarb and use more ginger and lemon for a zesty ginger lemonade. Just increase the amount of ginger and adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Mint and Lime Spritz
Replace the lemon with lime and blend with mint for a refreshing mint-lime spritz. This combination pairs well with the soda water to create a zesty drink.
Spiced Pear and Ginger Cooler
To give a different flavor profile, try adding spiced pear instead of rhubarb. Simmer pearl slices with ginger and mix with soda for a unique drink.
Herbal Infusion Soda
Experiment with other herbs such as basil or rosemary along with ginger for an aromatic herbal infusion. This can be mixed with soda water for a refreshing beverage.
