Ingredients
Method
- Place the blackberries and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Gently mash the berries with a wooden spoon as they warm up, releasing their juices. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes syrupy and the sugar completely dissolves.
- Pour the warm blackberry mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing the solids with the back of a spoon to extract every drop of flavor. This step removes the seeds while keeping all the color and taste.
- In a large pitcher, combine the strained blackberry syrup with fresh lemon juice. Stir well to blend the flavors completely. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Pour in the cold water and stir gently. Add ice cubes and give it one final mix. Serve immediately in tall glasses garnished with fresh mint and lemon slices.
Notes
Make the blackberry syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Store leftover blackberry lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight. Don't skip straining the blackberry mixture, avoid using hot water, don't over-sweeten initially, and use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for best taste.
