| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 130 | 0.5g | 0.1g | 33.2g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 28.2g | 2g | 1g | 0.01g |
I have a special place in my heart for our Yerba Buena and Ginger Refreshing Beverage, a sizzling, refreshing drink that truly encapsulates the merger between my Californian upbringing and Gujarati roots. This beverage is the perfect blend of zesty ginger, fresh fruits, and the minty coolness of yerba buena, bringing forth a culinary trip that bridges continents.
When East Meets West
As a child, bursts of ginger and splendid congregations of fresh produce often graced our Gujarati family table. Inspired by those fond memories, I wanted to create a beverage that not only speaks to my Indian roots but also celebrates the fresh, vibrant ingredients available on the West Coast. Our Yerba Buena and Ginger Refreshing Beverage does just that, uniting the tangy flavor of lime juice, the subtle sweetness of assorted fruits, and the slight bite of fresh ginger in a magnificent fusion of cultures.
A Refreshing Health Boost
Fresh fruit isn’t selected for this recipe just for the flavorful punch it packs. The antioxidants present in fruits like berries and oranges provide a myriad of health benefits, including the strengthening of the immune system and prevention of various diseases. The ginger in this beverage stimulates digestion and helps to relieve nausea, whereas yerba buena leaves, or mint as a handy substitute, are known for their soothing properties. The result? A tasty beverage that is as healthful as it is refreshing.
Pair this invigorating concoction with any spicy dish. The coolness of the beverage will act as the perfect balance to fiery mains. One particularly delightful pair is Chilli Paneer – the punchy heat contrasts beautifully with this refreshing beverage.
This blend of flavors takes me back to my childhood, where dishes were born from experimenting with available ingredients, creating exciting fusion dishes. Just as my mother before me, I’m proud to be passing on this love for food – the exploring, the experimenting, the joy of tasting – to Faisal and our sons. Cooking, after all, is all about love and stories; this Yerba Buena and Ginger Refreshing Beverage tells a tale that is both profoundly personal and deliciously universal.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups of water
- 1 cup of yerba buena leaves (fresh mint can be a substitute)
- 1 cup of chopped fresh ginger
- 1 cup of white sugar
- Juice of 6 limes
- 2 cups of mixed fresh fruits (like berries, oranges, apples, etc.)
- Additional slices of lime and mint leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes
Method
Step One
Firstly, you will need to bring your 6 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
Step Two
Once your water has reached a boil, add in 1 cup of chopped fresh ginger along with 1 cup of yerba buena leaves (or fresh mint leaves if you don’t have any yerba buena). Be sure to stir your mixture constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step Three
Now it’s time to allow your mixture to steep. So, remove your pot from the heat and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. This will give ample time for the flavors from the ginger and the leaves to get imparted in the water.
Step Four
Fourthly, strain your mixture into a large pitcher, making sure that no leaves or ginger pieces make their way in.
Step Five
Incorporate the juice of 6 freshly squeezed limes into the pitcher and stir well.
Step Six
Now, chill your pitcher in the refrigerator until it is cold, which should take about 2 hours.
Step Seven
Before serving, add in the 2 cups of mixed fresh fruits, lime slices and additional mint leaves into the pitcher.
Step Eight
Serve your refreshing beverage over ice cubes in a glass, garnish with a slice of lime and a mint leaf.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Yerba Buena and Ginger Beverage!
