Ah, summer. Time to retreat to the hammock or the pool lounger with a glass of lemonade and a good book.
I have been told that I make the world’s best lemonade. And would my sister lie to me? No, she would not.
Good lemonade is really just three ingredients: simple syrup, lemon juice and water.
Simple Syrup
2 cups sugar
2 cups water
Combine in a medium sauce pan and boil until mixture is clear. Let cool. Simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 weeks. It’s also handy for cocktails and sweetening tea if Southerners drop by.
Lemonade
1 cup lemon juice (if the lemons are small, this might require 6-8.) I use a Braun electric juicer that’s probably 30 years old. Don’t spring for one of those $100 fancy models unless you plan to juice kale and carrots. For citrus, the basic $16 juicer will get the job done.
1 cup simple syrup
3-4 cup water (or club soda, if you want fizzy lemonade — just be careful when you pour, because the club soda will froth in the pitcher)
Now pour a sip into a glass and taste. Too tart? Add more simple syrup. Too sweet or too watery? Juice another lemon.
When you’ve got the flavors adjusted just right, pour over ice in a tall glass, settle into your hammock or lounger with a good book and enjoy!