Once upon a time water was water, right? Flavoured water consisted of a squeeze of lemon juice and we were all happy. But times evolve and so do flavours, summer entertaining and the need to up our game.
As summer arrives, so does the need to look at our hydration. Drinking water helps maintain the balance of body fluid. Given that between 50-75% of our body is made of water, it’s more than important. Drinking fluids help energize muscles, our skin to look good and our organs function as they should.
We know we should. We don’t really need to be told.
From time to time a flavour burst in our water is more than OK in my books, particularly if you are looking for an alcohol free refresher or an excuse to drink more water!
I had fun with an oversize ice cube tray from Milly’s Kitchen. The cubes are massive and a perfect carrier for colour and flavour. Whether you view them as functioning flavoured ice or just a pretty touch, the concept is that the ice releases flavour slowly into the water as it melts.
I filled ice-cube moulds 3/4 full with boiled water then topped with fruit syrup concentrate to the top before packing with edible flowers from my garden. In this instance I used Squeezed Limes with Elderflower, a subtle cloudy hue that allowed the flowers to take centre stage while still seeping flavour into the water jug for ages. There is no need to purchase fruit syrup of course, your favourite homemade cordial is just perfect for the job, or straight lemon or lime juice.
Where to get Edible Flowers?
You may be growing these in your garden already: pansies, violas, rose petals, fuschia, nasturtium, hibiscus, herb flowers (rosemary, thyme, borage, sage) and even vegetable blossoms (squash, bean, pea etc) are all edible. Have fun and pack each ice mould with a combination of vibrant florals and natural flavour such as sprigs of mint, rosemary and other garden herbs to keep flavours fresh.
Edible flowers are lovely but you need to be sure that they aren’t going to make you sick, so ensure they are from parts of the garden not susceptible to garden sprays. Once picked, the pistils and stamens should be removed and only the petal used to be safe.
Have fun creating your own! I had heaps of fun creating these and can’t wait to try a few variations.
