. Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red/purple cabbage, chopped | 2 cups (about 150–200 g) |
| Fresh blueberries | 1 cup (about 150 g) |
| Water | 4 cups (950 ml) |
| Fresh lemon juice | 3–4 tbsp |
| Honey | 2–3 tbsp, to taste |
| Fresh mint | 6–8 leaves, optional |
| Ice cubes | As needed |
| Lemon slices | For serving |
2. Full preparation method
Step 1 — Prepare the ingredients
Wash the red cabbage and blueberries thoroughly. Chop the cabbage into small pieces and squeeze the fresh lemons.
Step 2 — Simmer the cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage and 4 cups of water to a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 8–10 minutes until the water turns deep purple.
Step 3 — Add the blueberries
Add the blueberries and simmer for another 3–5 minutes, gently pressing some berries with a spoon to release their juice.
Step 4 — Strain the mixture
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly, then pour the liquid through a fine-mesh strainer into a heat-safe bowl. Press the fruit gently to extract more liquid.
Step 5 — Add lemon and honey
While the liquid is warm but not hot, stir in the lemon juice and honey until dissolved. The lemon’s acidity can change the cabbage liquid from a bluish purple to a brighter magenta-purple.
Taste and adjust the lemon and sweetness to your preference.
Step 6 — Chill the drink
Let the drink cool completely, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours until cold.
Step 7 — Serve
Pour into glasses over ice. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint. For a presentation like the photo, pour into clean glass bottles and refrigerate.
3. Nutrition information
Estimated per glass — based on 5 servings
Approximately 50–65 calories
Carbohydrates
13–16 g
Protein
0–1 g
Total fat
0–0.5 g
Fiber
0–1 g
Approximate values assume the strained drink and 2–3 tablespoons of honey. Actual nutrition depends on how much fruit pulp is retained.
Nutrition notes
-
Contains naturally occurring plant pigments called anthocyanins from red cabbage and blueberries.
-
Provides some vitamin C, although the amount varies with cooking and straining.
-
Honey adds sugar; reduce it or omit it for a less-sweet drink.
-
Nut information: This recipe contains no nuts as written. Check packaged ingredients if you have a nut allergy.
4. Tips for the best results
-
For a brighter purple color: Add lemon juice gradually and stir.
-
For a stronger blueberry flavor: Increase blueberries to 1½ cups.
-
For a sweeter drink: Add honey to taste or use a little apple juice.
-
For a smoother drink: Strain through a fine-mesh sieve or clean cheesecloth.
-
For a richer fruit texture: Blend the cooked, cooled mixture and strain afterward.
-
For a chilled summer drink: Add sparkling water just before serving.
5. Storage and safety
-
Store in a clean, sealed bottle in the refrigerator.
-
Consume within 2–3 days for best quality.
-
Keep refrigerated at 4°C (40°F) or below.
-
Do not store homemade juice at room temperature for extended periods.
-
This is a fresh homemade drink, not a shelf-stable bottled product; refrigeration alone does not make it safe for long-term storage.
Serving suggestion: Serve chilled in tall glasses with ice, lemon slices, and mint for a striking deep-purple drink.