Khus and Cucumber Mojito Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Mocktail
As the summer sun heats up, keeping your body hydrated becomes a top priority. Summer produce like cucumber, lemon, mint, and khus is known for its cooling and hydrating properties, making them the perfect ingredients to beat the heat. Imagine a drink that not only refreshes you but also helps cool down your body—introducing the Khus and Cucumber Mojito, a delightful, non-alcoholic mocktail inspired by the classic mojito. This vibrant green drink, bursting with fresh flavors, is a must-have this summer to keep you feeling energized and cool. A perfect balance of cooling, hydrating, and digestive benefits, it’s a drink that’s both tasty and revitalizing.
Let’s dive into how to make this simple yet invigorating summer beverage that will help you stay refreshed through the scorching heat.
Recipe Overview:
- Cuisine: Continental
- Course: Appetizer
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Serving Size: Serves 2-3 people
Ingredients for Khus and Cucumber Mojito:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumber | 4 tablespoons (crushed) |
| Lemon Juice | 4 teaspoons |
| Sugar Syrup | 2 tablespoons |
| Khus Syrup | 2 tablespoons |
| Aerated Water (Soda Water) | 400 ml |
| Ice Cubes | As required |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 10 leaves |
| Lemon (sliced thin) | 1 Lemon |
| Cucumber (sliced thin) | 1/2 Cucumber |
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~60 kcal |
| Fat | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 0g |
Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Instructions for Making Khus and Cucumber Mojito:
-
Prepare Cucumber Extract:
- Begin by crushing the cucumber pieces using a mortar and pestle. Extract the juice and set it aside. The cucumber will release its natural hydrating properties, which is the base of this refreshing drink.
-
Mix Lemon and Mint:
- In a pitcher, squeeze fresh lemon juice to extract all the juice from the lemons. Add the mint leaves to the pitcher. Use the pestle to crush the mint leaves slightly, releasing their aromatic oils for an added burst of freshness.
-
Combine the Ingredients:
- To the pitcher, add the prepared cucumber juice, sugar syrup, and khus syrup. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the flavors blend together.
-
Add the Sparkling Water:
- Once the mixture is well-combined, pour in the sparkling water or soda water. Stir gently, allowing the fizzy texture to bring a delightful effervescence to your drink.
-
Prepare the Glasses:
- Take serving glasses and fill them with ice cubes. The ice will help keep the drink chilled and refreshing throughout.
-
Serve the Drink:
- Pour the prepared cucumber mojito mixture over the ice in each glass. To enhance the flavor and visual appeal, garnish with thin slices of cucumber, lemon, and a few more fresh mint leaves.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately, and enjoy your chilled Khus and Cucumber Mojito as a rejuvenating beverage. This mocktail is perfect for a hot summer day, offering hydration and coolness in every sip.
Serving Suggestions:
The Khus and Cucumber Mojito pairs wonderfully with snacks like Herbed Baby Potatoes and Raw Banana Cutlets, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing movie night or a gathering with friends and family. The light, fresh flavors of the drink complement the savory notes of the snacks, creating a delightful summer spread.
Tips and Variations:
- Flavor Boost: If you enjoy an extra zing, you can add a pinch of salt or black salt for a tangy twist.
- Khus Syrup Substitute: If you can’t find khus syrup, you can replace it with rose syrup or mint syrup for a different refreshing flavor profile.
- Alcoholic Version: If you’re looking to make this into an alcoholic drink, simply add a shot of rum or vodka for a tropical mojito with a kick.
This Khus and Cucumber Mojito is more than just a drink—it’s a cooling, hydrating, and rejuvenating treat perfect for hot summer days. The refreshing cucumber, tangy lemon, aromatic mint, and earthy khus syrup come together to make a drink that’s as invigorating as it is delicious. It’s a great way to beat the heat while treating your body to something nourishing and satisfying. Enjoy it by the poolside, at a picnic, or as a delightful welcome drink for your next gathering. Cheers to the perfect summer mocktail!
