Catnip was the beverage of choice in England until Chinese Tea arrived, and it was given the boot. Nowadays it is mostly thought of as a treat for cats, which is a pity as it is a good medicinal herb and a pleasant herbal tea. I prefer it cold, with lots of ice, and this recipe is delicious. Pink grapefruit are not quite so bitter, but if you don’t like grapefruit, use oranges. Adding vodka to this recipe makes a fabulous summer punch.
Catnip Cooler
In Medieval England, catnip tea was the most consumed beverage. Chinese tea took over, but catnip is around. Catnip Cooler makes a refreshing drink for those hot days of summer. Change the grapefruits for oranges if you prefer. Adding sparkling wine or vodka will turn this into a special summer punch.
Servings 6
Ingredients
- 2 Grapefruit
- 1/2 Cup Caster sugar
- 2 Tbsp Catnip, fresh and finely chopped
- 1 Cup Water
- 2 Cups Sparkling water This is optional, you could use 2 cups still water if you prefer.
Instructions
- Carefully peel the zest from the grapefruit, avoiding the bitter white pith
- Remove any pith that is still on the grapefruit and roughly chop the fruit
- Place the zest, chopped fruit, sugar, catnip and one cup of water into a blender.
- Blend until smooth
- Add the sparkling water and lots of ice
- Garnish with sprigs of catnip