Lemon-Ginger Drink with Basil

There are two ways to prepare this drink. The first one involves boiling all the ingredients, and the second one simply involves mixing without any heat treatment. Both methods result in a delicious drink, but the non-heated lemonade contains more benefits and vitamins. The boiled drink has a longer shelf life (can be stored up to 3 days in the refrigerator), while the freshly prepared drink is best served within the first day. Peel and slice the lemon into large slices. Do not throw away the lemon peel, as it can be useful in the household and for preparing other dishes. More information about the use of lemon peel and zest can be found here.

Thoroughly rinse the basil with water, rinsing each leaf. The stems can be trimmed.

Peel and thinly slice the ginger.

First method (with heat treatment). Place the lemon, ginger, basil, and honey (or sugar) in a saucepan or multi-cooker bowl. Pour in clean drinking water. Close the multi-cooker bowl and select the 'Stew,' 'Soup,' or 'Multicook' mode for 30 minutes (if there is a temperature control, set it to 80 degrees Celsius). If you are using a saucepan, wait for the liquid to boil, then turn off the heat, cover with a lid, and let it steep for 15 minutes.

Allow the lemon drink with basil to cool completely. Then strain the drink through a sieve and refrigerate it. Serve with ice cubes. For added beauty, you can garnish each glass with a lemon slice and a purple basil leaf.

Second method (without heat treatment). Place peeled lemon slices, ginger, and clean basil leaves in a carafe. Crush them with a muddler (a special pestle or mortar). If you don't have this kitchen tool, then crush the ingredients very carefully with a potato masher or a rolling pin (be sure to squeeze out the lemon juice and break the basil leaves).

Add honey and chilled drinking water (you can even use sparkling water). Mix well and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

Serve the lemon-ginger drink with basil over ice.