Invigorating lemongrass tonic recipe: A zesty pick-me-up for lazy afternoons

Ingredients:

Start by preparing the lemongrass. Remove the tough outer layers and cut the stalks into small pieces.
Next, place the lemongrass pieces in a ziplock bag and crush them lightly with a rolling pin. This will help release the flavor and aroma.
Then, transfer the crushed lemongrass to a small saucepan. Add the honey, lime juice, and water to the pan.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
After that, remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool completely. Once cooled, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lemongrass pieces.
Now, fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the strained lemongrass syrup over the ice.
Finally, top off the glass with club soda and stir gently. Your invigorating lemongrass tonic is now ready to enjoy!

Lemongrass is a fragrant grass plant with a citrusy aroma and flavor.

People commonly use it in Southeast Asian cuisine, especially Thai dishes.

This tall, slender herb has long, blade-like leaves and a pale green to white stalk.

The lower portion of the stalk is usually the edible part.

Lemongrass contains essential oils, citral, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C.

You’ll find lemongrass in various forms, such as fresh stalks, dried, powdered, and essential oil.

To use fresh lemongrass, you’ll need to remove the tough outer layers and finely chop or pound the tender inner core.

It adds a bright, lemony flavor to soups, curries, and marinades.

Lemongrass also makes a soothing, aromatic tea.

Simply steep chopped stalks in hot water for a refreshing beverage.

In cocktails, lemongrass syrup or muddled fresh lemongrass can add a unique twist to traditional drinks.

It pairs well with gin, vodka, and rum.

Beyond cooking, lemongrass is used in aromatherapy and traditional medicine for its potential health benefits.

Some people believe it can aid digestion and reduce stress.