Here are some drinks with lemongrass for your inspiration. Lemongrass has a delightful citrus aroma, perfect for making beverages. And not only warm drinks but also cool and refreshing ones. Once you’ve grown your own lemongrass bush, you’ll have to think about how to use it because it is very prolific. The pale stalks are great for marinades and salads, and the greenery can be used in aromatic drinks and teas.
Lemongrass and Ginger Iced Tea
- Lemongrass stalk
- 0.5 cup sugar
- 7 thin slices of fresh ginger root
- 5 green tea bags or 2-3 black tea bags
- Lemon juice to taste
Rinse the lemongrass stalk, press it with the flat side of a knife (to release the essential oils), and cut it into 5 cm long strips. Bring 5 cups of water to a boil, add ginger, lemongrass, and sugar, bring it back to a boil, and then remove from heat.
Add the green tea bags (adjust to taste) and let steep to the desired strength. Remove the tea bags and let the mixture cool. To give the drink a tangy note, add some lemon juice. It’s best to strain the drink before serving. Add ice.
Indonesian Bandrek with Lemongrass
This drink resembles masala chai . Bandrek is served in cold weather—it warms you up, tickles your taste buds, and helps fend off colds. It’s very simple to prepare: spices (amounts to taste) are lightly boiled in hot water. Add sugar.
- Ground or fresh ginger
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
- Lemongrass
- Sugar
Below are some ingredients that are not classic for Bandrek but might appeal to you:
- Anise
- Coriander
- Cardamom
- Chili
- Black pepper
- Coconut milk or flakes
- Sweetened condensed milk
Lemongrass and Mint Soda
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 lemongrass stalks
- A bunch of mint
- Sparkling water
- Lime for garnishing the glass
Cut the lemongrass stalks into pieces. In a saucepan, bring the water, sugar, and lemongrass to a boil, add chopped mint, and let it steep in the hot water for 15 minutes. Strain the syrup and refrigerate until needed.
In a glass, pour one tablespoon of syrup, add ice, a few drops of lime juice, and sparkling water. Garnish with lime and mint.
