| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 105 | 0.2g | 0g | 27g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 22g | 1.6g | 1g | 0.01g |
I have a somewhat unorthodox confession to make: apart from my signature Midwestern comfort recipes, there’s something about the unexpected fusion of various flavors that truly captivates me. That’s why the Horned Melon Iced Tea instantly caught my attention and why I believe it will turn your summer afternoon experience around.
A Little Bit About the Horned Melon
Not just an oddly named fruit, the horned melon, also referred to as kiwano, is quite a nourishing melon variant with a peculiar flavor that adds an interesting twist to any dish. Native to Africa, it has now made its way around the globe effortlessly blazing a path for its introduction into exciting new recipes. Studies have indicated that this vibrant fruit is loaded with Vitamin C and contain a substantial amount of dietary fiber along with essential minerals like zinc and magnesium.
The Magic of Fusion
This Horned Melon Iced Tea is more than just a refreshing beverage. It’s an innovative fusion of flavors, with the subtle sweetness of the fruit flawlessly merging with the robust flavor of your chosen tea variety. It’s reminiscent of typical tea infusions but with a whimsical twist. This delightful beverage could easily complement a light salad or could be served alongside my Summer Corn Salad for a perfect Midwestern summer meal.
But what I enjoy most about this recipe is the farm-to-table freshness; it remains aligned with my passion for using fresh and locally sourced produce. Moreover, cutting down on artificial sweeteners and making use of the natural sweetness of the Horned Melon is a health choice I am proud of — a little nod towards a healthier lifestyle without compromising on taste.
Why This Recipe Scores High on my List
This Horned Melon Iced Tea carries with it the spirit of my church community — genuine, welcoming, and refreshing. Preparing this recipe reminds me of potluck gatherings back in Nebraska, where everyone would contribute their unique and vibrant dish to the fellowship. After all, food is about family, community, and love. It’s a simple joy that never fails to make the people around me smile, making it a treasured addition to my collection.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups of water
- 1 Horned Melon
- 2 tea bags of your choice
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 Lemon
- Ice cubes
Method
Step One
Begin by boiling the 6 cups of water in a large pot or kettle. While the water is boiling, prepare your horned melon.
Step Two
Cut the horned melon in half and scoop out the flesh, discarding the seeds. Puree the melon flesh in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Step Three
Once the water has come to a boil, remove it from the heat and add the tea bags. Allow the tea to steep for about 5 minutes, then remove and discard the tea bags.
Step Four
Add the sugar to the hot tea and stir until it’s completely dissolved. Then, mix in the pureed melon. Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature.
Step Five
While the tea cools, prepare the lemon by cutting it into slices or wedges, depending on your preference. Once the tea has cooled, pour it into a large pitcher. Add the lemon slices and a generous amount of ice cubes.
Step Six
Stir the iced tea well, then serve chilled and enjoy. Your refreshing Horned Melon Iced Tea is now ready to beat the summer heat!
