Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lotus seeds (240 g)
- 3 cups water (720 ml) for boiling
- 2 cups cold water (480 ml)
- 1 ripe banana (medium, peeled)
- 1 cup coconut water (240 ml)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (15 g) (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime (30 ml)
- Mint leaves (for garnish)
- Slices of lime (for garnish)
- Edible flowers (e.g., hibiscus or nasturtium) (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Rinse 1 cup dried lotus seeds under cold water and soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight (optional).
- In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add soaked (or rinsed) lotus seeds and cook for about 10-15 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a blender, combine cooked lotus seeds, 2 cups cold water, banana, coconut water, honey (if using), and lime juice. Blend on high speed until smooth.
- Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher to remove any fibrous bits for a smoother drink.
- Pour the elixir into serving glasses over ice. Garnish with mint, lime slices, and edible flowers if desired.