Homemade sodas are in vogue
Especially in spring and summer, soda is often the (non-alcoholic) drink of choice. Homemade sodas are in vogue. In contrast to the usual mass products, which many guests mentally associate with sugar, chemicals and artificial taste, homemade sodas offer a whole range of advantages. They are considered healthy because they usually contain less sugar than industrial products and are alcohol-free anyway; they are hip because they can be made from regional and seasonal ingredients and thus stand for sustainability; they convey high quality because you get a freshly prepared drink instead of a ready-bought product.
Preparation methods and ingredients for homemade soda
Soda can be prepared in several ways. You can use pureed fruit and/or herbs as a base for the recipe, add sugar (or other sweeteners) and pour the whole thing with (sparkling) water. Or you can use syrup (ideally homemade) as a base – which only needs to be infused with water. A third option is to make the soda with tea. The tea is then added with sugar, water and matching fruits and spices. Of course, you can also combine these methods.
Tips for decoration and presentation
An appealing presentation of homemade sodas helps enhance the experience for guests and makes the drink an eye-catcher (readily photographed and posted on social media):
- Use attractive glasses that match the soda and make the drink even more attractive. Canning jars, wine glasses, cocktail glasses or long drink glasses can be a good choice.
- Garnish with fresh fruits and herbs. Suitable are for example a slice of lemon, lime or orange, a sprig of mint or basil – preferably with ingredients that are included in the lemonade. This adds flavor to the drink and looks high quality.
- Use straws as a decorative element. Ideally, you will even have straws that match the color of the lemonade.
- Add ice, either as cubes or crushed ice. This creates beautiful light reflections, especially in sunshine in the outdoor dining area.
Creative soda recipes
When it comes to making soda, restaurateurs are allowed to get creative. Classics can and should be offered, of course, such as a homemade lemonade. Surprises with unique combinations also look good on the menu, as they arouse the curiosity of the guests, tempt them to give it a try and can become a unique selling point of the restaurant.
Lemonade recipe
Ingredients:
- 150 ml lemon juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- 1 l water
- 110 g sugar
- some salt
Preparation:
Mix 0.5 l water with sugar and salt and bring to a boil. Allow to cool and add lemon juice and another 0.5 l of water. Chill and serve with ice and a slice of lemon.
Strawberry mint soda recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 kg strawberries
- 250 ml water
- 120 g sugar
- 450 ml lemon juice
- fresh mint as desired
Preparation:
Add the sugar to the water and heat until it dissolves and syrup is formed. While this is cooling, mix the strawberries and mint and add the syrup and lemon juice. As decoration fit mint leaves and a slice of lemon.
Lavender soda recipe
Ingredients:
- 100 g sugar
- 50 g dried lavender flowers
- 4 lemons
- 1.5 l water
Preparation:
Boil the sugar and lavender in 100 ml of water until syrup is formed. Put this in a cool place. Squeeze the lemons and add the juice to the syrup. Pour the mixture through a fine sieve. Add water and serve with ice.
Wild herbs soda recipe
Ingredients:
- Herbs such as yarrow, goutweed and chickweed, a total of at least 50 g.
- 1 l water
- 1 l apple juice
- 2 lemons
Preparation:
Cut lemons into thin slices and add herbs. Fill up with apple juice, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Pour through a sieve and fill with water. Serve with ice and a few sprigs of herbs.
