Description
Want a drink that’s light, zesty, and perfect for hot days or gatherings? The Orange Blossom Mint Refresher is your go-to recipe! This slow-cooker beverage blends fresh mint, orange juice, and a hint of orange blossom water for a crisp, floral-infused sip that’s both easy and elegant
Ingredients
- For the Refresher:
- 20 cups water
- 1 bunch fresh mint (about 1 cup)
- 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
- For Serving (Optional):
- Orange slices
- Additional fresh mint
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Water: The base for the drink, infused with mint for flavor.
- Fresh Mint: Adds a cool, herbal note that defines the refresher.
- Sugar: Provides just enough sweetness to balance the citrus and mint.
- Navel Orange: Freshly squeezed juice brings bright, tangy citrus flavor.
- Orange Blossom Water: Offers a delicate, floral essence that elevates the drink.
- Orange Extract (Alternative): Mimics the citrusy-floral note if orange blossom water isn’t available.
- Optional Garnishes: Orange slices and mint sprigs enhance presentation and add extra freshness.
Substitutions and Variations
- Mint: Swap with fresh basil for a different herbal twist or use a mix of mint and lemon balm.
- Sugar: Replace with 3/4 cup honey, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute like stevia (adjust to taste).
- Navel Orange: Use 1/2 cup store-bought orange juice (no sugar added) or try blood orange or tangerine for a different citrus flavor.
- Orange Blossom Water: Use 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 teaspoons orange extract, rose water for a different floral note, or omit for a simpler mint-citrus drink.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar to 1/2 cup or use a zero-sugar sweetener for a lighter option.
- Sparkling Version: Replace half the water with sparkling water after chilling for a fizzy refresher.
- Gluten-Free/Vegan: Naturally gluten-free and vegan; check orange blossom water or extract for additives.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Measure 20 cups water (5 quarts).
- Rinse 1 bunch fresh mint (about 1 cup) 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.
- Gather optional orange slices and fresh mint for serving.
Tip: Use fresh, vibrant mint for the best flavor; avoid wilted leaves.
Step 2: Infuse the Mint
- Combine in Slow Cooker: 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 heat and flavor trapped.
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
- Strain: Carefully strain the mint-infused water through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or pitcher. Discard the mint leaves.
Tip: Press the mint gently with a spoon to release any remaining flavor before discarding.
Step 4: Add Sweetness and Citrus
- Dissolve Sugar: Whisk 1 cup sugar into the hot mint-infused water until fully dissolved.
- Add Orange Juice: Cut the navel orange in half crosswise and squeeze the juice into the mixture (about 1/3 to 1/2 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). Start with the lower amount and adjust to taste.
Tip: Taste after adding 1 tablespoon orange blossom water; too much can be overpowering.
Step 5: Chill
- Transfer to Pitcher: Pour the mixture into a large pitcher (or two smaller ones).
- Refrigerate: Chill in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours, until cold.
Tip: Place the pitcher in the fridge uncovered for the first hour to cool faster, then cover to prevent absorbing fridge odors.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve Over Ice: Pour the chilled refresher into glasses filled with ice.
- Garnish (Optional): Add orange slices and fresh mint sprigs to each glass or the pitcher for a vibrant look.
Tip: Stir the pitcher before serving to ensure the flavors are evenly mixed.