Limonada

Coquetel-de-limão-vodca-e-hortelã

My limonada is consumed by my family with much gratitude when they arrive hot and thirsty.  They claim that no one makes better.  There is not much of a secret to making the traditional limonada that I once drank in my youth in the plaza of old Mexico.   One must use room temperature water (or warm) when mixing this delicious citrus beverage but after mixing, it must be served well-chilled, preferably refrigerated overnight. 

 When I look back at my childhood this is one of the treats that I want to always recollect.  The tall slender glass with a paper straw made the drink seem a special beverage of tart goodness.  When I traveled to Spain I was happy to discover the glasses again. 

A margarita can also be made with this limeade by adding tequila reposado, a dash of triple sec and some crushed ice.   Salt on the rim is optional.

Recipe:

8 medium limes

1 1/2 – 2 cups of sugar

1/2 gal of water

Squeeze the limes and combine the juice with the sugar at the bottom of the pitcher with a tall spoon or wire whip.   Add a little water to help stir it well.   Finish filling up the pitcher with the rest of the water. 

Chill overnight.    

More sugar can be added if you prefer a sweeter drink.  It can be served with or without ice. 

Pour with a smile and deliver with an extended loving hand.