When I was a kid, we would have a bottle of cordial in the fridge to make drinks for guests and I would sneak into the kitchen to make a drink for myself from time to time (other kids do that with cookies from the cookie jar, mine was cordial…). Thankfully that habit has worn off since then and I drink mainly water and unsweetened tea today. However, I remembered being particular thirsty one day and even water couldn’t quite quench that thirst. Peered into the fridge and spotted my big glass bottle of organic lemon juice and maple syrup.
You might think: bottled lemon juice? Why not just use freshly squeezed lemons? Firstly, I bought the bottle of organic lemon juice from Costco as I needed lemon juice for several Middle Eastern stew recipes I was trying out (Really good, I ought to post on that soon). Secondly, lemon is not something that’s usually featured in my grocery list as I don’t cook often enough with it, apart from the occasional honey and lemon tea. They tend to get all sorry and wrinkly in the fridge, my bad. Thirdly, it’s organic and the name intrigued me… I’m a sucker for that! For those who are curious, it’s the 100% organic lemon juice by Italian Volcano. I was afraid it would be like the lemon juice in the plastic bottle but it was surprisingly good with a sharp and fresh citrusy scent and flavour (I only hope that’s not a flavour pack contributing to that…). Don’t stop selling this, Costco! Being in Quebec, I use a lot more maple syrup in sweet and savoury cooking than I do back in my home country as it’s way more available and affordable. So there’s always a nice jug of maple syrup in the fridge waiting to be used.
Anyhow, back to the lemonade. Put the two together and I got lemonade in a jiffy. No fiddly sugar syrups to make (not that I’m supposed to have those…)! This hits the spot and reminds me of the cordials of my childhood but much more grown up, without the artificial flavours and colourings. Definitely an occasional treat when water alone can’t do. Kids approved!
Ingredients
1.5 – 2 tbsp maple syrup, medium grade (Use a lighter grade if you prefer a more subtle maple syrup taste)
2 – 3 tbsp lemon juice (Bottled or freshly squeezed, it’s your call)
1.5 cups water, preferably icy cold
Method
Mix everything up in a large glass. Feel free to adjust the amounts according to your taste preference. Enjoy!
