One of my fondest memories as a child was icy cold lemonade from the summer carnival. Served in an extra large styrofoam cup with whole squeezed lemons and loads of sugar, it was the perfect summertime staple, and I find myself craving it whenever warmer weather begins to appear. But try as I may, I’ve never been able to quite master the recipe. So instead of mess with my idea of perfection, I’ve found it better to simply create an inspired-by version. My latest spin: a honey infused thyme lemonade with sugared blackberries I served at my spring lunch. Think of it as the grownup version of carnival lemonade; vodka optional. So until the ferris wheels and elephant ears pull into town, best to whip up a batch of this, sit back, and enjoy. Truly, MKR
- 1/2 CUP HONEY
- 1 CUP WARM WATER
- 2 1/2 CUPS FRESH SQUEEZED LEMON JUICE
- 3/4 GALLON COLD WATER
- 4-6 SPRIGS OF THYME + ADDITIONAL FOR GARNISH GARNISH
- BLACKBERRIES + SUGAR FOR SANDING
- In a saucepan over low heat warm the honey and warm water until the honey is dissolved.
- ADD LEMON JUICE, AND COLD WATER, STIR, add more honey if desired
- IN A BOWL MIX A TABLESPOON OF SUGAR WITH THE BLACKBERRIES UNTIL COATED AND SET ASIDE.
- Add sprigs of thyme and chill. POUR LEMONADE OVER GLASSES OF ICE, SQUEEZE SLICE OF LEMON ON TOP OF EACH, AND GARNISH WITH A SPRIG OF THYME and sugared blackberries.
- IF YOU'D LIKE TO MAKE THIS AN ADULT BEVERAGE SIMPLY ADD A BIT OF VODKA AND STIR.