Complexity: ★★☆☆☆
A common item in the Mega Man series is the Energy Tank, which I've interpreted as an energy drink! Energy drinks are basically the human equivalent of fuel, which felt right for the robotic Mega Man.
Making a homemade energy drink is surprisingly easy with a few key ingredients: coconut water is great for electrolyte replacement, which helps with rehydrating after strenuous athletic activity. Ginger - as well as herbs such as mint - help speed up metabolism, increase circulation, and aid with digestion.
The energy bullets Mega Man shoots from his Mega Buster are often jokingly referred to as “lemons” by Mega Man fans, due to their yellow colour and lozenge-shaped appearance – so I decided to make it a lemonade energy drink! Lemon also helps with alkaline formation and the maintenance of a health pH level, which adds to this drink’s energizing effect.
Though it is pretty much impossible to make a drink that looks naturally blue, I made this drink blueberry-flavoured in the spirit of the “Blue Bomber.” Berries are also great sources of antioxidants and natural sugars, which is perfect for an energy boost.
INGREDIENTS
¼ cup water
¼ cup sugar
½ cup blueberries
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about five or six lemons)
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice (about one lime)
1 small knob of ginger, thinly sliced
A few fresh mint leaves
3-4 tbsp honey
2-3 cups coconut water (depending on how strong or diluted you want it)
1 cup cold water
Ice cubes
PREPARATION
Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan. Add blueberries and mash with a fork or potato masher. Simmer over medium heat for about five minutes until slightly reduced.
Push blueberry mixture through fine mesh sieve to remove lumps. Set aside the syrup.
Add lemon juice and lime juice to a medium-large pot. Add sliced ginger and mint leaves, simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse.
Remove ginger and mint. Stir in honey and blueberry syrup.
Add to a pitcher along with cold water, coconut water, and ice. Refrigerate until fully chilled.
Elements of this recipe were created with the help of my generous patrons! If you'd like to help me create future recipes, consider supporting me on Patreon!
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