Drink. Recipe

Prepare sweetener (if using)

If you prefer the honey fully dissolved (especially for a warm or room-temperature drink), place 1 tsp honey in a small cup and add 2 tablespoons hot water. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved. Let cool slightly before adding to the drink. If you don't mind a bit of undissolved honey or are using sparkling water, skip this step and add honey directly.

Muddle the mint

In a serving glass, add the fresh mint leaves. Gently muddle the leaves with the back of a spoon or a muddler 6–8 times to release aromatic oils — do not shred them to avoid bitterness.

Combine lemon and honey

Add the fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons) to the glass. Add the honey (either the prepared honey syrup from the previous step or 1 tsp directly). Stir well to combine so the lemon juice and honey are integrated with the muddled mint.

Add water and ice

Pour 1 cup cold water into the glass and add about 6 ice cubes. Stir briskly for 10–15 seconds so the flavors marry and the drink chills.

Top with sparkling water (optional)

If you want a fizzy finish, gently pour 1/2 cup sparkling water on top. Stir once gently to combine without losing too much carbonation.

Garnish and serve

Add a lemon slice to the rim or float it in the drink. Optionally slap a small mint sprig between your palms and place it on top for aroma. Serve immediately.

For a warmer beverage, omit ice, use all hot water (about 1 cup) and use the prepared honey syrup to sweeten. Adjust lemon and honey to taste. To make a larger batch, multiply ingredients proportionally.