How-To Corner

“Mama, I’m sooooo hot and thirsty!”

Pioneers in the 1800s would probably have called apple cider their drink for all seasons, in part because they grew apples. But the most popular “special treat” summer drink would have been lemonade. Like all early foods, it was made from scratch in a way that got the most flavor out of something that didn’t grow in the Ozarks.

This recipe will make a pretty close version of that long ago specialty. Preparing the lemons involves using a paring knife, so kids will need an adult helper for this project. It is adapted from a delightful and informative book called Pioneer Days by David C. King.

1. Have the helper peel the rinds from four lemons and cut the rinds into ½” slices. Save the peeled lemons for Step 5.

2. Place the sliced rinds into a mixing bowl and sprinkle one cup of sugar over them. Let stand for an hour, so that the sugar begins to soak up the lemon oil.

3. Have the adult bring one quart of water to a rapid boil in a covered pan, then carefully pour the hot water over the sugared rinds.

4. Allow the mixture to cool for about 20 minutes, then remove the rinds with a mixing spoon.

5. Squeeze the lemons into a medium bowl, then pour the juice through a strainer into the sugar mixture.

6. Stir the mixture well, pour it into a pitcher, and cool in the refrigerator.

7. Serve when cold or pour lemonade over ice in glasses for a special treat.

Tastes best sipped slowly on a front porch or under a shade tree!