Homemade strawberry lemonade concentrate is the perfect way to enjoy a refreshing and sweet-tart beverage all year round. This concentrate is made from fresh strawberries and zesty lemons, capturing the essence of summer in every sip. It’s easy to prepare and can be stored for future use, making it an ideal option for those looking to impress their guests or quench their thirst during hot weather. Simply mix with water, and you’ll have a refreshing, flavorful drink in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 pound of fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup of fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of lemon zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
Instructions
- Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly, removing the stems, and cutting them into halves or quarters.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water, heating over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Stir occasionally to prevent the sugar from sticking to the pan.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, add the halved strawberries to the saucepan. Stir and let them cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the strawberries to soften and release their natural juices.
- Using a potato masher or spoon, gently mash the strawberries to extract more juice and enhance the flavor.
- Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest (if using) to the strawberry mixture, stirring well. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Once the concentrate has reached the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- After cooling, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the strawberry pulp, leaving behind the smooth concentrate.
- Transfer the strained concentrate into an airtight jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- To serve, mix 1 part concentrate with 3 parts water, or adjust to your taste preference. For a fizzy twist, use sparkling water or club soda.
- Enjoy your homemade strawberry lemonade concentrate chilled over ice, and garnish with fresh mint or lemon slices for an extra burst of freshness.