Ingredients
Simple Saffron Sugar Syrup
- 1 cup sugar (adjust per taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed cardamom seeds
- 1 cup water
Lemonade
- 1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon rose water
- Pinch of salt
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice (as needed)
Instructions
- Make Simple Sugar Syrup on Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine sugar, saffron strands, crushed cardamom seeds, and 1 cup of water. Heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Cool and Add Flavorings: Remove the syrup from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, stir in the rose water and a pinch of salt. Transfer the syrup into a glass mason jar and refrigerate until fully chilled.
- Optional Instant Pot Method: Alternatively, place sugar, saffron, and 1 cup water inside the Instant Pot. Whisk gently to combine. Seal the lid and set the pressure release knob to the sealed position. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute. Perform a quick pressure release when done.
- Prepare Lemonade: In a large pitcher, add 4 cups of cold water and plenty of crushed ice. Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice along with the chilled saffron simple syrup. Stir well to blend all flavors evenly.
- Serve: Pour the lemonade into glasses and enjoy immediately. For smaller servings, mix 2 tablespoons each of lemon juice and saffron syrup with 1 cup ice water. Adjust syrup or water to taste as preferred.
Notes
- Adjust sugar quantity to your preferred sweetness level.
- Chilling the syrup completely enhances the flavor integration in the lemonade.
- Saffron strands add a subtle earthy aroma and rich yellow hue to the syrup.
- Crushed cardamom enhances the drink with warm spice notes.
- Rose water contributes a floral fragrance that complements the citrus.
- Serve the lemonade chilled with plenty of ice for best refreshment.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian