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Lime and Ginger Cooler (Lem na Singa)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

  • Lime juice — 120 ml (4 fl oz)
  • Grated fresh ginger — 2 tbsp
  • Water — 960 ml (32 fl oz)
  • Sugar, or to taste — 100 g (3.5 oz)
  • Ice, to serve

Method

  1. Combine the grated ginger with a little of the water, and let steep for 15 minutes.
  2. Strain the ginger water into a jug, pressing to extract the flavour; discard the ginger solids.
  3. Add the lime juice, remaining water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  4. Chill well before serving over ice.

Introduction: A refreshing blend of fresh lime juice and grated ginger, lightly sweetened, a cooling drink suited to Papua New Guinea's warm climate.

Cultural Background: With citrus and ginger both grown across Papua New Guinea, combining them into a bright, spicy-sweet cooler is a natural and refreshing way to use these ingredients on a hot day.

Tips: Adjust the ginger steeping time to taste — longer gives a stronger, spicier drink. Taste and adjust the sugar and lime balance before serving.

Variations: Add a few mint leaves for extra freshness. Use a mix of lime and orange juice for a different citrus profile.

Storage: Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: This drink is served cold and is not reheated.

FAQs:

Q: Is this drink very spicy from the ginger?

A: It has a gentle warmth from the ginger, balanced by the sweet-tart lime, adjustable by steeping time.

Q: Can this be made ahead?

A: Yes, it keeps well for a few days in the refrigerator.