Middle Eastern Fruit Drink 2

Ingredients

• 4lemons or oranges
• 100 gsugar
• 1 Lwater
• as neededice

Method

1. Begin by preparing the citrus fruits. If using lemons, roll them firmly on the countertop to release their juices before slicing each in half. If using oranges, peel them and separate into segments. This step ensures maximum juice extraction and flavor.
2. Juice the lemons or oranges into a large mixing bowl, ensuring to catch any seeds. You should aim for about 250 ml of juice. This forms the citrus base of the drink, providing the characteristic tang and aroma.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine 100 g of sugar with 1 L of water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar is completely dissolved. The mixture should be clear and free of sugar granules, indicating that the sugar has fully integrated into the water.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Once cooled, pour the sugar-water mixture into the bowl with the citrus juice. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the flavors meld without losing the fresh citrus aroma.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. The drink should be well-chilled, enhancing its refreshing qualities and allowing the flavors to develop fully.
6. When ready to serve, fill a traditional Middle Eastern glass with ice cubes. Pour the chilled fruit drink over the ice, filling the glass to the brim. This immediate serving method ensures the drink is enjoyed at its most refreshing temperature.