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refreshing mauby lemonade

Refreshing Caribbean Mauby Lemonade

This refreshing Caribbean Mauby Lemonade combines homemade Mauby syrup with fresh lemon juice for a unique tropical drink that's sweet, citrusy, and perfectly balanced by the classic earthy flavour of Mauby.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Drinks, Easy Caribbean Recipes, Summer Recipes, Sunday Dinners
Cuisine General Caribbean
Servings 10

Ingredients
  

  • 10 cups water divided
  • 1 star anise
  • 4 pieces Mauby bark
  • 1- inch piece cinnamon stick
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4- inch piece dried orange peel optional
  • 4 –6 slices orange
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 5 to 6 lemons

Instructions
 

  • Place 5 cups of the water into a saucepan along with the star anise, Mauby bark, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, dried orange peel, orange slices, and sugar.
    making the mauby base for the lemonade
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
    steep the mauby syrup in making lemonade
  • Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely while it continues to steep. This here is the scent of my childhood. Every Sunday morning there would be a pot of Mauby steeping in the kitchen while Sunday lunch was being prepared.
  • Once completely cooled, strain the liquid into a large pitcher or bowl, discarding the solids.
    strain the mauby syrup
  • Add the remaining 5 cups of water along with the fresh lemon juice.
    add the remaining water and lemon juice to complete the mauby lemonade
  • Whisk well until fully combined.
  • Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary. Keep in mind that it a may dilute a bit when ice is added.
    caribbean inspired mauby lemonade
  • Chill thoroughly before serving over ice with fresh lemon slices and mint.
  • If you enjoy this Mauby Lemonade, be sure to check out my Big People Lemonade loaded with a dose of Caribbean white rum.
    refreshing glass of mauby lemonade
  • Be sure to watch the video below where I also discuss making traditional Mauby and share a few additional flavour variations you can experiment with. If you make this recipe, leave me a comment and let me know how you personalized your Mauby Lemonade. I always enjoy hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Video

Notes

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can I make Mauby Lemonade ahead of time?

Yes. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for several hours, allowing the flavours to fully meld together. Be sure to stir well before serving.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is highly recommended. It provides a brighter, cleaner flavour that complements the Mauby much better than bottled juice.

Is Mauby Lemonade supposed to taste slightly bitter?

Yes. Mauby naturally has a pleasant earthy bitterness. The sugar and fresh lemon juice balance those flavours, creating a refreshing drink that's both sweet and slightly bitter. Using honey instead of sugar may assist with the slight bitterness.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Absolutely. Everyone enjoys Mauby differently, so feel free to add more or less sugar to suit your taste. 

Can I use this Mauby syrup for other drinks?

Yes. The Mauby syrup makes an excellent base for sparkling water, cocktails, iced tea, or other citrus beverages.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!