Camous Fakesho Recipe

Brew the tea

Brew 2 cups strong black tea (use 2 tea bags or 2 tbsp loose leaf) by steeping in 2 cups just-boiled water for 5 minutes. Remove tea leaves/bags and pour out 1 cup of the brewed tea into a heatproof container; add 1 cup hot water to that leftover concentrate to reach 2 cups total if needed. Let tea cool to warm (about 15 minutes) or chill briefly in an ice bath for 5 minutes.

Measure and prepare citrus and sweetener. While tea cools, squeeze 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice. Prepare 2 teaspoons simple syrup (or use prepared). These balance the tannins of the strong tea and provide the CAMOUS FAKESHO signature bright flavor.

Lightly bruise 8 fresh mint leaves between your fingers to release oils. Strip leaves from 2 thyme sprigs and keep the sprigs whole for garnish if desired. If using dried lavender, measure 1 teaspoon.

Infuse herbs (optional step for stronger aroma): place the bruised mint, thyme sprigs, and lavender into the warm brewed tea. Let steep for 3–5 minutes, then strain out herbs so tea remains clear. If you prefer a fresher grassy note, skip steeping and add mint later as an aromatic garnish.

Dry shake for foam

Into a cocktail shaker, add 2/3 cup (about 160 ml) of the cooled brewed tea, the lemon juice, orange juice, 2 teaspoons simple syrup, bruised mint leaves (reserve one sprig for garnish), and 1 large egg white. Do a dry shake (no ice) vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg white and create a rich foam.

Wet shake and chill

Add 1 cup of ice to the shaker and shake hard for 10–12 seconds to chill and dilute slightly. This will also further thicken the foam.

Strain and serve

Double-strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or an iced rocks glass over fresh ice (if serving on the rocks) using a fine mesh strainer to remove mint bits and ice shards. The drink should have a silky, frothy head.

Garnish

Float a single mint sprig or a lemon wheel on the foam and, if desired, lightly dust the foam with a pinch of dried lavender for aroma. Optionally express an orange peel over the drink for an extra oil wash.