Now take a look at the castle {can you find Alena}....
There are not that many pictures of our hike as -
shame on me - the battery ran out -> ooops for not charging the battery properly....but Ron did make a video of Mia Rosie's favorite friend Sascha on the visit...
Anyways now we are back in Portland and I have memories of that delicious drink. Mint-Lemon Balm Syrup in sparkling water - oh yes. I am happy to report, that the experiment of recreating the syrup worked out :)
We first harvested the herbs in our garden, washed the lemons, cut them, brought the mixture to a boil and let it sit for a couple of days....
Mint-Lemon Balm Syrup
- 1 Bunch of fresh mint
- 2 Bunches of fresh lemon balm
- 5 organic lemons washed, and sliced
- Large pot
- 10-3/4 C of water
- 4-1/2 lbs. sugar
- app. 5 wide mouth quart sized canning jars {I ended up with three jars and three bottles}
- Rinse herbs, then pluck the leaves off and place in the large pot
- Add the lemon slices, and water to the pot
- Bring to a rolling boil, cover and remove from the heat
- Leave covered for two days at room temperature. Stir occasionally
- Remove herbs, as well as lemons from the mixture.
- Place the pot back on the stove, adding the sugar. Bring mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently. Boil for about 5 minutes then remove from the heat and fill the syrup into prepared jars and bottles.
- Prior to filling the jars and bottles, place cheesecloth on top of the jar/bottle. Be careful not to burn yourself. The syrup is very hot!
- Add to Sparkling Water, or Prosecco, or White Rum, or.....the options are endless :)
Enjoy!