When the sun beats down and the heat sets in, our bodies send us a simple message: hydrate me! And while drinking water remains essential, it's perfectly possible to vary the pleasures by making your own natural, refreshing, healthy... and simply delicious drinks.
Here's a selection of ideas to make at home, using simple, seasonal ingredients.
1. Infused water: unlimited freshness
This is perhaps the simplest drink to make, yet one of the most satisfying.
Basic ingredients:
- Fresh water
- Seasonal fruit (strawberries, lemon, melon, etc.)
- Aromatic herbs (mint, basil, rosemary)
Examples of combinations:
- Cucumber + mint + lemon
- Strawberry + basil + lime
- Watermelon + mint + lemon
💡 Tip: prepare your infused water the day before for a stronger flavour. And keep it in the fridge (or in a Zeer jar 😉 ) throughout the day.
2. Fruit kefir: the living drink
Not very sweet, fizzy and full of good bacteria for the intestinal flora, fruit kefir is a fermented drink that's easy to make at home. All you need is a little patience... and a few kefir grains.
Ingredients:
- Water
- Kefir grains (often found by word of mouth or on the internet)
- Sugar
- Dried fruit (figs, apricots)
- Lemon slices
After 24 to 48 hours of fermentation, you have a naturally carbonated drink that's thirst-quenching and good for you.
3. Iced hibiscus (or bissap): an African classic
Very popular in West Africa, bissap is an infusion of hibiscus flowers, rich in antioxidants, tart and an irresistible deep red colour.
Quick recipe:
- 1 handful dried hibiscus flowers (available from herbalists)
- 1 litre boiling water
- Optional: sugar, mint, ginger, lemon
Leave to infuse, strain and serve chilled. As well as being tasty, it helps to regulate blood pressure.
4. Homemade iced tea: much healthier than store-bought
Making your own iced tea means you can avoid excess sugar and adapt the flavours to your taste.
Try it:
- Green tea + lemon + mint
- Rooibos + orange + ginger
- Infusion of verbena or camomile + apple
💡 Tip: infuse cold in filtered water for a few hours in the fridge. The taste is sweeter, less bitter, and there's no need for sugar!
5. Lemon mint watermelon juice: ultra-hydrating
Watermelon is one of the most water-rich fruits (over 90%), making it a perfect base for a summer drink.
Simple recipe:
- Flesh of half a watermelon
- Juice of one lime
- A few mint leaves
Blend, strain if necessary and serve with ice cubes. Maximum hydration guaranteed.
6. Mango lassi: creamy and refreshing
Originally from India, this mixture of yoghurt, fruit and water is a popular refreshment in hot weather.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe mango
- 1 plain yoghurt (or vegetable yoghurt)
- 10 cl fresh water
- A little honey or agave syrup
- A pinch of cardamom
Blend and enjoy straight away! It's nourishing, refreshing and full of flavour.
Why make your own drinks?
- Zero waste: no more plastic bottles.
- Less sugar: you control the ingredients.
- Creativity: test, adjust and invent your own recipes.
- Health and pleasure: there's nothing like fresh, raw ingredients to make you feel good.
In Brief: hydration doesn't have to be monotonous. By combining fruit, plants, spices and a little know-how, you can turn every glass of water into a refreshing sensory experience that's good for both body and soul.
So grab your jars, bottles and jugs! It's going to be a thirst-quenching summer 🌿💦