Mary'S Drink
A refreshing citrus drink with vibrant flavors of oranges and lemons, perfect for hot days or gatherings, suited for those who enjoy tangy, sweet beverages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate or grind the oranges and lemons.
- Cover the grated or ground citrus with a quart of boiling water.
- Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture into a cloth and squeeze out the juice.
- Dissolve the sugar and citric acid in cold water.
- Mix the strained citrus juice with the sugar and citric acid solution.
- Add enough water to make a total of one gallon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter drink, consider reducing the amount of citric acid or using a sugar alternative like agave nectar. Fresh citrus yields the best flavor, so use ripe oranges and lemons. If you don't have citric acid, you can substitute with lemon juice, but adjust the sugar accordingly. This drink can also be made in larger batches and served at gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary'S Drink chilled over ice, garnished with fresh citrus slices for a vibrant presentation. It pairs beautifully with the refreshing flavors of Picadilly Strawberry Pie and is perfect for summer gatherings or family picnics. Consider serving it alongside savory dishes like grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Mary'S Drink in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the flavors seem muted after a few days, consider adding a splash of fresh citrus juice before serving. To refresh the drink, add ice or sparkling water for a bubbly twist when serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Drink contains roughly 523 calories, with 14g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (117% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (48% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other citrus fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the original recipe calls for oranges and lemons, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like limes or grapefruits for a unique twist. Just keep the total quantity of citrus about the same to maintain the flavor balance.
Is this drink suitable for kids?
Yes, Mary'S Drink is a non-alcoholic beverage, making it great for kids. Its refreshing citrus flavor is usually a hit with children, especially during warm weather. Just ensure you adjust the sugar level to your preference for a less sweet option.
How can I make this drink more festive for a party?
To make Mary'S Drink more festive, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist. You can also serve it in attractive glassware with colorful straws. Adding fresh berries or citrus wedges as garnish will enhance its visual appeal, making it a perfect addition to any gathering.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).