1. Make the Watermelon Syrup:
- Extract Juice: Start by blending the cubed watermelon until smooth. Strain the blended watermelon through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a bowl to remove the pulp, yielding fresh watermelon juice.
- Cook the Syrup: Pour the watermelon juice into a large saucepan. Add the lemon juice if using. Simmer over medium heat, allowing the juice to reduce to about a quarter of its original volume. This concentrates the flavors and natural sugars, creating a syrup. The reduction process should take about 30-45 minutes.
- Cool: Once the juice has reduced and thickened into a syrup, remove it from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to a clean bottle or jar and refrigerate until cold.
2. Mix Your Drink:
- Combine Ingredients: To make your soda, fill a glass with ice. Pour one part watermelon syrup over the ice, depending on how sweet you like your drink.
- Add Sparkling Water: Top off the glass with three parts sparkling water. This ratio can be adjusted based on how strong or light you prefer your drink.
- Stir Gently: Mix the syrup and sparkling water gently with a spoon to combine them without losing too much carbonation.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish: Add a slice of lemon or lime, or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.
- Adjustments: If you find the flavor too mild, increase the amount of syrup slightly for a stronger taste.
Conclusion:
This homemade organic “Coca Cola” is a fantastic way to enjoy a sweet, fizzy drink without any artificial ingredients or added sugars. The natural sweetness and flavor from the watermelon, combined with the effervescence of sparkling water, create a refreshing beverage perfect for hot days, parties, or whenever you need a soda fix. Plus, this two-ingredient drink is not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy creating and sipping your healthy, homemade soda alternative!
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