Tarkhun (Georgian Tarragon Soda)

Ingredients

Fresh tarragon leaves

1 cup, packed

Granulated sugar

1 cup

Water

4 cups

Lemon juice

1/4 cup, freshly squeezed

Green food coloring

a few drops (optional)

Ice

for serving

Lemon slices or tarragon sprigs

for garnish

Instructions

1. Begin by rinsing the fresh tarragon leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Pat them dry gently with a paper towel.
2. In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the tarragon leaves, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Allow the tarragon to steep for about 20 minutes, letting the aromatic flavors infuse into the water.
3. After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher, discarding the tarragon leaves.
4. While the tarragon-infused water is still warm, add 1 cup of granulated sugar and stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved. This creates a sweet tarragon syrup that is the heart of your drink.
5. Add 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the syrup, balancing the sweetness with a refreshing acidity that invigorates the palate.
6. For an extra pop of vibrant green color, add a few drops of green food coloring, if desired, and mix well to achieve your preferred hue.
7. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for 1-2 hours until it is cold and refreshing.
8. To serve, fill a glass with ice and pour the chilled Tarkhun over the ice. Garnish with a sprig of tarragon or a slice of lemon for an elegant touch that enhances the drink's presentation.