Jogja Jeruk Alunan
Jogja Jeruk Alunan is a refreshing citrus beverage inspired by the traditional and cultural essence of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The name "Jeruk Alunan" loosely translates to "oranges in harmony," reflecting how this drink harmoniously combines citrus flavors with local spices that are cherished in the region. Historically, this drink has been enjoyed during hot days as a cooling refreshment and has since become a staple in many local gatherings.
Ingredients
- Oranges - 4 medium-sized
- Lemongrass - 2 stalks
- Ginger - 1 inch, sliced
- Cinnamon - 1 stick
- Cloves - 3 whole
- Honey - 2 tablespoons
- Water - 4 cups
- Mint leaves - for garnish
- Ice cubes - as needed
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Peel and juice the oranges, ensuring there are no seeds in the juice. Set aside the juice for later use. Take the lemongrass stalks and gently crush them with the back of a knife to release their aroma. Slice the ginger into thin pieces.
Step 2: Making the Citrus Base
In a pot, combine 4 cups of water, the crushed lemongrass, ginger slices, and whole cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the water.
Step 3: Blending the Flavors
Add the cinnamon stick to the pot and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the pot from heat and strain the liquid into a large pitcher to remove the solid spices. Stir in the freshly squeezed orange juice and honey. Mix well to ensure that the honey dissolves completely in the warm spice-infused liquid.
Step 4: Cooling the Beverage
Let the citrus mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. For a quicker cooling process, you can add ice cubes directly into the beverage before serving.
Step 5: Serving Jogja Jeruk Alunan
To serve, pour the chilled Jogja Jeruk Alunan into glasses filled with ice cubes. Garnish each glass with fresh mint leaves for an added refreshing touch and to enhance the presentation.
Enjoying the Beverage
Jogja Jeruk Alunan is best enjoyed as a refreshing drink on a hot day. Its vibrant citrus flavor combined with the warmth of spices makes it a versatile beverage for any occasion, including friendly gatherings or as a unique offering at cultural celebrations. The soothing aroma of lemongrass and cinnamon not only pleases the palate but also offers a calming effect, reflecting the serene and relaxed lifestyle of Yogyakarta. Pair it with traditional Indonesian snacks to complete the experience.
Cooking Time
Ensure that you have a cooking timer set to help keep track of each step in the preparation to make the process as smooth as possible.