Imperata, Sugarcane, Carrot, Water Chestnut & Job's Tears Water

Why people make this drink

It may be winter, but on crisp clear days everyone heads out for a barbecue. A little of that “heaty” charred food now and then is fine, says Nourilo, but eat too much and you feel the heat rising. That’s when a clear, sweet, cooling drink comes in handy. Imperata-and-sugarcane water suits any season; add carrot and water chestnut for extra sweetness, and a little raw Job’s tears to bring in some dampness-draining and gentle cough-easing as well.

Method

1. Rinse the imperata root and cut into lengths; split the sugarcane in half; peel and cut the carrot; peel and halve the water chestnuts; rinse the Job’s tears.
2. Put everything in a pot with 2.1 L of water.
3. Boil about 30 minutes until reduced to 0.9–1.2 L. Serve.

Nourilo’s Tips

This drink is clear, sweet and pleasant, and is traditionally said to support the body’s defenses; good for young and old. But those with a cold, weak constitution and pregnant women are not suited to it.