Butterfly Pea Flower Lemonade: Refreshing Recipe for a Colorful Drink

Butterfly Pea Flower Lemonade is not just a drink; it’s a vibrant experience that tantalizes the senses. This enchanting beverage, with its striking blue hue, is made from the petals of the butterfly pea flower, a plant native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally used in Thai cuisine, this flower has been celebrated for its natural color and health benefits for centuries. I love how this lemonade not only refreshes but also captivates with its color-changing magic when mixed with citrus. People adore Butterfly Pea Flower Lemonade for its unique taste, delightful texture, and the convenience of preparing it at home. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply treating yourself, this drink is sure to impress and invigorate!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried butterfly pea flowers
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
• 1 cup honey or agave syrup (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
• Optional: lemon slices (for garnish)

Preparing the Butterfly Pea Flower Tea

1. **Boil the Water**: Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium-sized pot. I love using filtered water for the best taste, but tap water works just fine too. 2. **Add the Butterfly Pea Flowers**: Once the water is boiling, remove it from the heat and add 1 cup of dried butterfly pea flowers. The vibrant blue color will start to infuse into the water almost immediately. 3. **Steep the Flowers**: Cover the pot and let the flowers steep for about 10-15 minutes. The longer you steep, the deeper the blue color will become. I usually go for around 15 minutes to get a rich hue. 4. **Strain the Tea**: After steeping, use a fine mesh strainer to separate the flowers from the liquid. Discard the flowers and set the blue tea aside to cool. You can also transfer it to a pitcher for easier pouring later.

Making the Lemonade Base

5. **Juice the Lemons**: While the tea is cooling, it’s time to juice the lemons. Roll each lemon on the countertop with your palm to help release the juices, then cut them in half and use a citrus juicer to extract the juice. Aim for about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. 6. **Combine Lemon Juice and Sweetener**: In a large mixing bowl or pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice with 1 cup of honey or agave syrup. Stir well until the sweetener is fully dissolved. If you prefer a less sweet lemonade, feel free to adjust the amount of sweetener to your taste. 7. **Mix in the Butterfly Pea Tea**: Once the butterfly pea tea has cooled to room temperature, slowly pour it into the lemon juice mixture. Stir gently to combine. You’ll notice the color change from blue to a beautiful purple as the acidity of the lemon juice interacts with the butterfly pea flower tea.

Final Touches and Serving

8. **Chill the Lemonade**: At this point, you can either serve the lemonade immediately over ice or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour. I usually opt for chilling, as it enhances the refreshing taste. 9. **Prepare to Serve**: When you’re ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the butterfly pea flower lemonade over the ice, filling each glass about three-quarters full. 10. **Garnish**: For a beautiful presentation, garnish each glass with a few fresh mint leaves and a slice of lemon on the rim. The mint adds a lovely aroma and a pop of color that makes the drink even more inviting. 11. **Enjoy**: Take a moment to admire the stunning color of your butterfly pea flower lemonade before taking a sip. The combination of floral notes from the butterfly pea flowers and the tartness of the lemon creates a delightful balance that’s perfect for any occasion.

Variations and Tips

12. **Experiment with Flavors**: If you want to get creative, consider adding other flavors to your lemonade. A splash of coconut water can add a tropical twist, or you can infuse the tea with herbs like basil or rosemary during the steeping process for a unique flavor profile. 13. **Make it Sparkling**: For a fizzy version, replace half of the water with sparkling water or club soda. This adds a refreshing effervescence that’s perfect for summer gatherings. 14. **Adjust Sweetness**: If you find the lemonade too sweet or too tart, feel free to adjust the honey or lemon juice to your liking. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate. 15. **Store Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, store the butterfly pea flower lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle. 16. **Health Benefits**: Not only is this drink visually stunning, but butterfly pea flowers are also known for their health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and may help reduce stress and improve skin health. So, you can sip on this beautiful beverage knowing it

Conclusion:

In summary, this Butterfly Pea Flower Lemonade is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their beverage game with a stunning and refreshing drink. The vibrant blue hue, which transforms into a beautiful purple with the addition of lemon juice, not only makes for a visually striking presentation but also offers a unique flavor profile that is both floral and citrusy. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or simply as a delightful treat to enjoy on a warm day. For serving suggestions, consider garnishing your lemonade with fresh mint leaves or slices of lemon for an extra pop of color and flavor. You can also experiment with variations by adding a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist or incorporating other fruits like berries or tropical fruits for a fun twist on the classic recipe. I encourage you to give this Butterfly Pea Flower Lemonade a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re sipping it poolside or serving it at a party, I’m sure it will be a hit! Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out and any creative variations you come up with. Cheers to delicious drinks and beautiful moments! Print