| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 5 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 75 | 1g | 0g | 17g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 16g | 2g | 2g | 0g |
Each mouthful of my Kiwano and Mint Ice Cubes for Cocktails is an utter refresher, a flavor-packed blend that redefines the summer cocktail experience. To me, this recipe holds a special place. Not just for its innovative use of Kiwano melons — a stunningly beautiful and nutrition-laden fruit — but also for its ability to fuse two completely different worlds: my New England upbringing and my love for innovative food experiences.
A Melting Pot of Tradition and Innovation
Growing up in Boston with Irish roots, seafood and hearty meals were the staples in our family. My taste buds evolved over time, however, and I found myself constantly in pursuit of new and exciting flavors. The Kiwano and Mint Ice Cubes for Cocktails recipe brings out the best of both worlds – the comfort of a classic family tradition, infused with a twist of culinary exploration.
The Healthful Blend
These non-alcoholic ice cubes are loaded with health benefits. Kiwano, also known as horned melon, is packed with antioxidants, Vitamin A and C, and minerals that are good for your skin and overall health. The mint leaves add not only a refreshing flavor but also promote digestion. Then there’s the lemon, a great source of vitamin C, which boosts your immunity.
Besides, with this recipe, you have the perfect excuse to consume less alcohol without sacrificing the joy of a cocktail hour. These vibrant green and gold ice cubes can be added in sparkling water, a light wine, or even your favorite mocktail, turning it into a drink that is both flavorful and fabulous.
The Kiwano and Mint Ice Cubes for Cocktails is somewhat similar to and might work well with dishes from the Mexican cuisine, which cherishes the use of fresh ingredients and offers a wide variety of refreshing non-alcoholic beverages.
So, while my partner Laura and I spend our evenings chatting, we often relish these Kiwano and Mint Ice Cubes for Cocktails watching our little boy play. And we hope that this family tradition continues when he grows up and starts entertaining his friends and loved ones!
What You’ll Need
- 2 Kiwano melons
- 1 cup of Fresh mint leaves
- 2 cups of Water
- 1 cup of Sugar
- 1 Lemon (Juice extracted)
Method
Step One
Begin by halving the kiwano melons and scoop out the flesh. Ensure to remove the seeds and store in a separate dish. Place this flesh into a blender or food processor.
Step Two
Following this, add the fresh mint leaves to the blender or food processor and blend until you have a smooth purée. Pour this purée through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any remaining seeds or pulp.
Step Three
Now, in a medium-sized saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved. Allow this mixture to cool completely.
Step Four
Once cooled, add the strained kiwano and mint purée into the saucepan. Mix in the fresh lemon juice. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step Five
Finally, pour the mixture into an ice cube tray. Place the tray in the freezer and let it get solid. These kiwano and mint ice cubes can be added to your favorite cocktails to give them a unique, refreshing twist.
