Bottled Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate

Introduction:

This homemade Bottled strawberry lemonade concentrate brings a burst of fresh fruit flavor, perfect for making refreshing drinks year-round. It’s easy to prepare, and you can customize the sweetness and tartness to your liking. Enjoy it mixed with cold water or sparkling water for a crisp, cool beverage.

Reasons to Love This Bottled Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate Recipe:

• It’s a great way to enjoy the taste of summer, even during the colder months.
• The concentrate is versatile—adjust the flavor by diluting it with water or sparkling water, depending on your preference.
• Homemade means you can control the ingredients and avoid any preservatives or artificial flavors.
• Perfect for parties, picnics, or as a refreshing drink during the day.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups water

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions:

• For a sweeter taste, you can substitute granulated sugar with honey or agave syrup.
• If you prefer a tangy twist, add a few mint leaves or a splash of lime juice.
• Use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t in season, though fresh strawberries will provide a better flavor.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Blender or food processor
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Large pitcher or bowl
• Funnel
• Clean bottles or jars with lids

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberries:
   Wash the strawberries thoroughly and remove the hulls. Slice them into pieces for easy blending.
2. Make the Strawberry Puree:
   Blend the sliced strawberries in a food processor or blender until smooth.
3. Strain the Puree:
   Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the puree into a pitcher or large bowl to remove the seeds and pulp.
4. Prepare the Lemon Juice:
   Juice the lemons to get 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, straining it to remove any seeds or pulp.
5. Make the Concentrate:
   In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the strained strawberry puree and fresh lemon juice to the cooled sugar syrup. Stir well to combine.
7. Bottle the Concentrate:
   Use a funnel to pour the concentrate into clean bottles or jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Seal with lids.
8. Store the Concentrate:
   Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.

What to Serve with Bottled Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate:

Pair this strawberry lemonade concentrate with light dishes like grilled chicken, sandwiches, or salads. It’s also delicious as a base for a sparkling mocktail or cocktail. For a refreshing treat, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How to Store Bottled Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate:

Store the concentrate in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you plan to keep it longer, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Can I Freeze Bottled Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate?

Yes! You can freeze the concentrate in airtight containers or jars. This way, you can enjoy a refreshing drink later without needing to make a new batch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. Can I adjust the sweetness of the concentrate?
   Yes! You can add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink, or reduce it if you like it more tart. You can also use alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
2. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
   Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute in a pinch.

Resources

The Spruce Eats – Homemade Lemonade Recipes

Bon Appétit – How to Make Fresh Fruit Concentrates

Nutritional Information:

(Include approximate nutritional values based on ingredients, such as calories, sugars, and serving size.)

Conclusion:

This strawberry lemonade concentrate is the perfect homemade solution for keeping cool during the hot months. Easy to make, versatile, and full of fresh flavors, it’s a must-have recipe for any lemonade lover!

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