Ingredients (Serves 2)
2 large lemons (preferably organic for maximum flavor)
1-inch piece of fresh ginger root
2 cups of filtered water
1–2 tablespoons of raw honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra kick)
Ice cubes (optional, for a chilled version)
Equipment
Juicer or citrus reamer
Grater or microplane (for ginger)
Fine mesh strainer
Pitcher or large glass
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Lemons: Roll the lemons on a countertop to release their juices, then cut them in half. Squeeze the juice into a pitcher, aiming for about ½ cup of fresh lemon juice. Remove any seeds, but keep the pulp for added nutrients.
Grate the Ginger: Peel the ginger root using a spoon or peeler, then grate it finely using a microplane or grater. You’ll need about 1–2 teaspoons of grated ginger, depending on how spicy you like it.
Combine Ingredients: Add the lemon juice and grated ginger to the pitcher with 2 cups of filtered water. Stir well to combine. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove ginger fibers.
Sweeten It Up: Taste the juice and, if desired, add 1–2 tablespoons of raw honey or maple syrup. Stir until fully dissolved. For a fiery twist, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serve and Enjoy: Pour over ice for a refreshing chill or serve at room temperature for a soothing warmth. Garnish with a lemon slice or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of elegance.
This recipe yields a perfectly balanced drink, but feel free to tweak the ratios to suit your taste. Love it tangy? Add more lemon. Craving spice? Up the ginger. The beauty of ginger lemon juice lies in its versatility.