Citronnade à la fleur d'oranger
This refreshing Moroccan-style lemonade is vivid with fresh lemon juice, delicately perfumed with orange blossom water, and lifted by cool mint. Served over ice, it is light, fragrant, and especially welcome on warm days or alongside rich savory dishes.
Ingredients
Base de citronnade
- 120 mlfresh lemon juice
- 500 mlcold water
- 50 gcaster sugar
- 10 mlorange blossom water
Finition à la menthe
- 10 gfresh mint leaves
- 200 gice cubes
- 4 slicesthin lemon slices
Instructions
- 1
Add the caster sugar to 100 ml of the cold water in a jug and stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the sugar is mostly dissolved. Using a small amount of water first helps it dissolve faster without heating, which keeps the drink within the 10-minute time limit.
- 2
Lightly clap the mint leaves between your palms to release their aroma, then add half of them to the jug. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, the remaining cold water, and the orange blossom water. Stir well, then taste: it should be bright, fragrant, and slightly sweeter than you expect once poured over ice.
- 3
Add the ice cubes and stir for 15-20 seconds to chill the citronnade quickly. Do not overdo the orange blossom water; too much can make the drink taste soapy rather than floral.
- 4
Divide the drink between 2 glasses. Garnish with the remaining mint leaves and the thin lemon slices, then serve immediately for the freshest flavor and strongest mint aroma.
Nutrition per serving
Notes
- •For a smoother texture, strain the lemon juice before mixing if it contains a lot of pulp or seeds.
- •If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the sugar to 35-40 g.
- •Chill the water and glasses beforehand for an even colder result without excessive dilution.
- •A splash more orange blossom water can be added drop by drop, but use restraint because its flavour is potent.
Background
Citrus drinks scented with floral waters are deeply rooted in Moroccan hospitality, where orange blossom water is a classic flavoring in both sweets and refreshments. This style of citronnade reflects the country's love of balancing bright acidity, sweetness, and perfume-like aromatics, often finished with fresh mint for extra freshness.
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