30 Min

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Watermelon Cooler

After living in Canada for almost a decade, moving to Houston’s warm climate came as a welcome change. I felt right at home during the balmy summers, which reminded me much of the weather in New Delhi.

Now, having lived here for upward of 20 years, what I look forward to most during the onset of summer is the abundance of fruits: melons, mangoes, cherries, and tomatoes. This simple watermelon drink is a great way to stay hydrated — the basil adds a haunting fragrance and the salt and chile balance the flavors. If the watermelon is very sweet, eliminate the honey. You can also kick it up a notch by adding a few shots of gin.

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Cook Time

30 Minutes

Serves

4

Directions

Step 1

Pour boiling water over the honey, salt, and chile powder and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir together until the honey has dissolved; and, in a blender, combine with the watermelon, basil leaves, and purée until completely smooth. Strain if you desire (the pulp has lots of fiber) and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Step 2

Serve over ice garnished with basil leaves and lime wedges.

Ingredients

1/2 cup boiling water

4 tablespoons honey

Generous pinch of salt

Scant pinch of chile powder

8 cups roughly chopped seedless watermelon

15 to 20 leaves basil

Juice of 2 limes

Lime wheels for garnish

Step 1

Step 2

Serve over ice garnished with basil leaves and lime wedges.

1/2 cup boiling water

4 tablespoons honey

Generous pinch of salt

Scant pinch of chile powder

8 cups roughly chopped seedless watermelon

15 to 20 leaves basil

Juice of 2 limes

Lime wheels for garnish

Tags:

30 Min

Tags:

30 Min

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