When we're in sweltering heat, we look at each other and say, "How much longer do we have of this?" The answer is right there. September temperatures average a high of 88 degrees and low of 69 degrees. Right now it's 91/73. September is only 2 1/2 weeks away. That's something to hang your hat on - something to look forward to.
Meanwhile we look for ways to regulate the heat. Let me share one idea with you. A tall glass of lemongrass tea with shaved ice with a sprig of fresh mint for garnish. First, put the cold glass against your forehead and then take a sip. Not too fast, though. You'll get a brain freeze. Sounds good? Let's make some.
I started this clump of lemongrass from seed several years ago. It dies back in the winter, but always pops back up in the spring. It is big and unruly, with sharp leaves that'll cut you like pampas grass. We have it growing in our little herb garden with some rosemary, ginger, oregano, French sorrel and parsley. I'll reach over and cut some off.
If you could smell this, you would see why it's called Lemon Grass. It has a wonderful aroma of lemons. In addition to making tea, you can use it to cook with to make Vietnamese dishes. We've never tried it, but I'd like to.
I washed it off real good, because there's ants and all sorts of critters that I don't want in our tea. I cut it up into inch-long pieces, put in a pot and add water. I put the top on, bring it to a boil and then turn the heat to simmer and let it steep.
I poured through a colander and funnel. The stems and leaves will be composted.
We'll let the lemongrass tea cool in the windowsill for a while. It's got a nice color to it and a nice fragrance as well. In fact, the entire kitchen smells fresh like lemons.
Ready to beat the heat? Lemme pour a glass for you.
*Takes a big, long sip*
Ahhhh. That's real nice and refreshing. This will go a long way in helping us make it to the cooler temps in September. Stay cool, friends.
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