With the recent boom in non-alcoholic drinks, why not try making a mocktail (non-alcoholic cocktail) at home using seasonal fruits and green tea? This time, we're introducing a drink recipe perfect for early summer using melon, which is in season from spring to summer, and "036 Minamikaori"!
Melon and "036 Minamikaori" Herb Mocktail
"036 Minamikaori" is a variety from Ei, Kagoshima Prefecture, known for its strong sweetness and bitterness, with a scent reminiscent of young grass. As it's deep-steamed, enjoy its deep green color as well. Combined with melon, which is available from spring to summer, and herbs like basil and mint, it creates a refreshingly crisp flavor.
Ingredients
• 4g "036 Minamikaori" tea
• 6 ice cubes
• 1/4 green-fleshed melon
(If not ripe, add agave syrup or sugar to taste)
• Salt B: A small amount for topping
(Finer salt is recommended over coarse salt)
• 70ml carbonated water
- A
• 2 basil leaves
• 7 mint leaves
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt A: A very small pinch (just a tiny amount is enough)
Preparation Method
[1] Extract melon juice
Remove the melon seeds and press the melon flesh through a strainer using your hands or a spoon to extract the juice.
[2] Blend ingredients A
Add the ingredients A (squeezed lemon, basil, mint, salt A) to the melon juice and blend. Taste and add agave syrup or sugar if you want more sweetness.
[3] Brew the first infusion of "036 Minamikaori"
Put 4g of "036 Minamikaori" in a teapot and steep with 80°C water for 70 seconds. Pour into a beaker with 5 ice cubes and stir. Once the tea has cooled, remove the ice and add to [2].
[4] Brew the second infusion
Place one ice cube in the center of the teapot with the remaining tea leaves, add 50ml of chilled soda water, wait for 20 seconds, then add to [2].
[5] Pour into a glass and add toppings to finish
Rim the glass with lemon juice and salt B, pour the mixture into the glass, and finally add 20ml of carbonated water. It's ready!
If the melon flesh isn't ripe, it can cause a grassy taste
