Discover how to create L&P (Lemon & Paeroa), New Zealand's beloved lemon-flavored soft drink, right in your kitchen. This refreshing recipe captures the tangy, citrusy essence of the original Paeroa beverage, offering a homemade alternative to the classic Kiwi drink. Perfect for summer gatherings or a nostalgic treat!

Ingredients:

- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)

- 1 cup sugar

- 1/4 cup citric acid (for tartness)

- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest

- 1 liter sparkling water

- Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Lemon Syrup:

  - In a saucepan, combine the fresh lemon juice, sugar, and citric acid.

  - Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved. This should take about 5 minutes.

  - Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest. Let it cool to room temperature.

Mix the Drink:

  - In a large pitcher, combine the cooled lemon syrup with the sparkling water. Stir gently to mix.

  - Adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more sugar or citric acid if desired.

Serve:

  - Pour the L&P into glasses filled with ice cubes if you like it chilled.

  - Garnish with a lemon slice or mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Enjoy:

  - Refresh yourself with this homemade version of the classic L&P soft drink, perfect for any occasion!

Nutritional Values

1 Cup Fresh Lemon Juice (About 4-5 Lemons)

  - Calories: 22

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Fat: 0.2g

Benefits:

  - High in vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin health.

  - Contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation.

1 Cup Sugar

  - Calories: 387

  - Carbohydrates: 100g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Provides sweetness and energy.

  - However, excessive consumption should be monitored as it can contribute to various health issues.

1/4 Cup Citric Acid (For Tartness)

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Enhances tart flavor.

  - Acts as a preservative and helps balance the pH of the lemonade.

1/4 Teaspoon Lemon Zest

  - Calories: 40

  - Carbohydrates: 10g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 1g

Benefits:

  - Adds flavor and aroma.

  - Contains essential oils and antioxidants.

1 Liter Sparkling Water

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Provides a fizzy texture.

  - Hydrates without added calories.

Ice Cubes (Optional)

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

  - Keeps the lemonade cool and refreshing.

This lemonade recipe combines fresh lemon juice and citric acid to create a tart, refreshing drink. The sugar adds sweetness, while the sparkling water gives it a fizzy texture. The optional ice cubes make it even more refreshing.