Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsEl CazadorLemonade Recipe

Lemonade Recipe

Inspired by El Cazador
Time45m
Serves6

Make Lemonade Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Simple Syrup

Method

Simple Syrup

  1. 1

    Combine

    In a small saucepan combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water. If using, add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the pan to infuse aroma.

  2. 2

    Heat until dissolved

    Place saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved and the liquid is clear, about 3–5 minutes. Do not boil vigorously; a gentle simmer is fine.

  3. 3

    Cool and strain

    Remove from heat. If you used lemon zest, let syrup steep for 10 minutes, then strain out the zest. Transfer the syrup to a heatproof container and cool to room temperature (or refrigerate until chilled).

Lemonade

  1. 4

    Juice the lemons

    Roll the lemons on the counter to loosen juices. Cut lemons in half and juice them until you have 1 cup (approx. 6–8 medium lemons). Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove seeds and excess pulp, if desired.

  2. 5

    Assemble

    To the pitcher with lemon juice, add 1 cup chilled simple syrup and 4 cups cold water. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust: for sweeter lemonade, add more syrup; for tarter lemonade, add a bit more lemon juice or reduce water.

  3. 6

    Season and chill

    If using, add a pinch of salt to brighten the flavors and stir. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and let flavors meld, or serve immediately over ice for quick service.

  4. 7

    Serve

    Fill glasses with ice (about 1/2 cup to 1 cup per glass). Pour lemonade over ice, garnish each glass with a lemon slice and a sprig of mint if desired. Stir before drinking.

  5. 8

    Make ahead & storage

    Store leftover lemonade in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Keep simple syrup refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. Stir before serving as separation may occur.

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