L&P (Lemon and Paeroa Style Drink)

Name: L&P (Lemon and Paeroa Style Drink)
Cuisine: New Zealand
Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice — 240 ml (8 fl oz); Sugar — 100 g (3.5 oz); Sparkling mineral water, chilled — 960 ml (32 fl oz); Lemon slices, to garnish

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

Fresh lemon juice — 240 ml (8 fl oz)
Sugar — 100 g (3.5 oz)
Sparkling mineral water, chilled — 960 ml (32 fl oz)
Lemon slices, to garnish

Method

Combine the lemon juice and sugar in a jug, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Chill the lemon syrup thoroughly.
Just before serving, top up with chilled sparkling mineral water, stirring gently to combine.
Serve over ice, garnished with lemon slices.

Introduction: A tangy, effervescent lemon soft drink, a beloved icon of New Zealand's soft drink history, famously associated with the town of Paeroa.

Cultural Background: L&P, meaning 'Lemon & Paeroa', originated from the natural mineral water found near the town of Paeroa, and it has become one of New Zealand's most recognisable and cherished soft drinks, celebrated with a giant bottle-shaped monument in the town itself.

Tips: Chill both the lemon syrup and mineral water well before combining for the most refreshing result. Adjust the sugar to taste, as lemon tartness can vary.

Variations: Add a few mint leaves for a fresher twist. Use a flavoured sparkling water for a slightly different character.

Storage: Store the lemon syrup separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 week; combine with sparkling water just before serving.

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

FAQs:

Q: What does L&P stand for?

A: Lemon & Paeroa, named after the New Zealand town near where the original mineral water source was found.

Q: Is this homemade version the same as the commercial drink?

A: It's a homemade approximation of the classic tangy lemon soda flavour that L&P is known for.