Refreshing Delight: Lemongrass Manuka Honey Granita
When the heat of summer arrives, nothing beats the satisfaction of indulging in a cold, refreshing treat. One such delight that has captured the attention of taste enthusiasts is the Lemongrass Manuka Honey Granita, made by our dear friends from Steens Honey using our Lemongrass Moringa tea blend! This exquisite dessert combines the zesty aroma of lemongrass with the rich sweetness of Manuka honey, resulting in a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. In this blog, we delve into the delightful world of Lemongrass Manuka Honey Granita, exploring its origins, health benefits, and the reasons behind its growing popularity.
Who is Steens Honey?
Steens Honey is New Zealand’s leading producer of high grade UMF Manuka honey. The company was started by Paul and Sheryl Steens because they wanted to bring a better quality Manuka to market; one that is raw, unpasteurised and minimally processed – just as nature intended.
The couple has been beekeeping for over 34 years so they know a thing or two about honey. Most commercial honeys are creamed which means the honey is processed twice and the natural crystals are melted out to give it a smooth consistency. However, studies have shown that the flavonoids and enzymes which give Manuka it’s unique qualities are damaged through the high temperatures in the conventional honey processing. Therefore Steens Honey goes a different way. Steens Manuka is not subjected to high temperatures. It is raw & unpasteurised which means the natural crystals are retained. Its like dipping your finger straight into the honeycomb.
The Origins of Lemongrass Manuka Honey Granita: A Fusion of Flavors
Lemongrass, known for its distinct lemony fragrance and citrusy taste, has been a staple in culinary traditions across the world. Originating in Southeast Asia, lemongrass has been utilized in a variety of dishes, teas, and even medicines due to its potential health benefits. Its infusion into the world of granitas, a semi-frozen dessert originating from Italy, is a testament to the art of fusion cuisine.
Manuka honey, sourced primarily from New Zealand, is another crucial ingredient in this refreshing treat. Renowned for its unique antibacterial properties and rich flavor profile, Manuka honey has gained global recognition for its potential health benefits. The combination of lemongrass and Manuka honey brings together the boldness of citrus and the subtlety of floral sweetness, creating a truly harmonious taste experience.
Health Benefits: A Treat for Your Taste Buds and Well-being
Aside from its delightful taste, Lemongrass Manuka Honey Granita also boasts a range of potential health benefits. Lemongrass is often celebrated for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Its aromatic compounds may aid in relieving indigestion and soothing gastrointestinal discomfort. Moreover, lemongrass contains antioxidants that could contribute to overall well-being by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
Manuka honey, on the other hand, has been recognized for its exceptional antibacterial and wound-healing properties. Thanks to the presence of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound found in significant amounts in Manuka honey, it may possess potent antibacterial effects. This makes the Lemongrass Manuka Honey Granita not only a satisfying dessert but also a potential ally in supporting your immune system.
The Rising Popularity: A Culinary Sensation
In recent years, the Lemongrass Manuka Honey Granita has gained considerable attention among food enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, and culinary experts alike. Its unique combination of flavors and potential health benefits has turned it into a sought-after treat during scorching summer days.
The granita’s popularity can also be attributed to its versatility. It serves as a delightful dessert after a hearty meal, a palate-cleansing intermezzo between courses, or even a stand-alone refreshment. Additionally, its visually appealing appearance, with its icy crystals glistening in the sunlight, makes it an Instagram-worthy indulgence that encourages sharing and social media buzz.
The Lemongrass Manuka Honey Granita is more than just a frozen dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors, cultures, and potential health benefits. By merging the citrusy zest of lemongrass with the richness of Manuka honey, this culinary masterpiece offers a symphony of tastes that invigorate the senses.
Lemongrass Moringa Granita with Manuka Honey Recipe
Ingredients
2 cups water
1 cup pineapple juice (freshly squeezed is best)
2x Kazi Yetu Lemongrass Moringa Tea Bags
2/3 cup Steens raw Manuka honey
To garnish:
Fresh Pineapple finely sliced and cut into shards
Lime zest or wedges, or a fresh lemongrass leaf
Fresh edible flowers or petals
How to make it
- Bring water to a boil; place tea bags into a large pitcher or bowl. Pour boiling water carefully over tea bags; steep, covered, for 5 minutes. Discard tea bags.
- Stir in honey once tea has cooled down to around 30C and keep stirring until dissolved. Pour pineapple juice into tea and honey mix.
- Pour granita mixture into an 8-by-8-inch metal pan. Cover and place pan in freezer for 1 hour. Remove pan from freezer and scrape mixture with a fork, crushing any lumps. Freeze an additional 20 minutes; remove and scrape. Repeat every 20 minutes until mixture looks like fluffy crushed ice.
- Spoon into small glasses and serve with a couple of slices of fresh pineapple, a spiral or wedge of lime and some fresh edible flowers. Enjoy
