Description
Looking for a light, flavorful beverage that’s perfect for summer picnics, brunches, or relaxing afternoons? The Orange Blossom Mint Refresher is the ultimate recipe! This slow-cooker drink combines fresh mint, zesty orange juice, and delicate orange blossom water for a crisp, aromatic sip that’s both soothing and invigorating.
Ingredients
- For the Refresher:
- 20 cups water
- 1 bunch fresh mint (about 1 cup, loosely packed)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large navel orange
- 1 to 2 tablespoons orange blossom water or 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 teaspoons orange extract
- Optional Garnishes:
- Orange slices
- Additional fresh mint
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Water: The base for steeping mint and diluting flavors.
- Fresh Mint: Infuses a cool, herbal aroma and taste.
- Sugar: Adds light sweetness to balance the citrus.
- Navel Orange: Provides fresh, tangy juice for brightness.
- Orange Blossom Water: Delivers a delicate, floral note; orange extract is a stronger, citrusy alternative.
- Garnishes: Orange slices and mint enhance presentation and flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
- Mint: Swap with fresh basil for a different herbal note.
- Sugar: Replace with 3/4 cup honey, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute like stevia (adjust to taste).
- Orange: Use 1/2 cup store-bought orange juice or swap with lemon for a tarter drink.
- Orange Blossom Water: Use 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 teaspoons orange extract or 1 teaspoon rose water for a different floral touch.
- Low-Sugar: Reduce sugar to 1/2 cup or omit for a less sweet version.
- Sparkling Version: Replace half the water with sparkling water after chilling.
- Herbal Twist: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme with the mint during steeping.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Measure 20 cups water (5 quarts).
- Rinse 1 bunch fresh mint (about 1 cup leaves) and pat dry.
- Measure 1 cup sugar.
- Wash 1 large navel orange.
- Measure 1 to 2 tablespoons orange blossom water or 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 teaspoons orange extract.
- Prep optional garnishes: slice extra oranges thinly and rinse additional mint.
- Ensure a 6-quart slow cooker is clean.
Tip: Use fresh, vibrant mint for the best flavor; remove any wilted leaves.
Step 2: Steep Mint in Slow Cooker
- Add Water and Mint: Place 20 cups water and 1 cup fresh mint in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on High for 6 hours, until the water is heated through and infused with mint flavor.
Tip: Don’t lift the lid during cooking to keep the mint aroma trapped; the water should be hot but not boiling.
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
- Strain Mint: Carefully strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large heat-safe bowl or pitcher, discarding the mint leaves.
- Clean Slow Cooker: Rinse the slow cooker if reusing, or use a separate pitcher for the next steps.
Tip: Press mint gently with a spoon to release extra flavor; let the liquid cool slightly for safe handling.
Step 4: Add Sweetness and Citrus
- Dissolve Sugar: Whisk 1 cup sugar into the warm mint-infused water until fully dissolved.
- Juice Orange: Cut the navel orange in half crosswise and squeeze the juice into the mixture (about 1/4 to 1/3 cup juice). Stir to combine.
- Add Orange Blossom Water: Stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons orange blossom water or 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 teaspoons orange extract, starting with the lower amount and adjusting to taste.
Tip: Dissolve sugar while the liquid is warm for easier mixing; taste after adding orange blossom water to avoid overpowering the floral note.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Transfer to Pitcher: Pour the mixture into a large pitcher if not already in one.
- Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate for 4-6 hours, until completely cold.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour the refresher over ice, and garnish with orange slices and fresh mint if desired.
Tip: Chill thoroughly for the best taste; stir before serving to redistribute flavors.