Persimmon Tea-Collins Mocktail

As the crisp air flows and the vibrant green leaves of summer fall, I find myself yearning for the comforting flavors of autumn. At this season’s transition, I’ve crafted a drink as an ode to autumn’s start. I hope you will enjoy the warm tones of this persimmon tea-collins.

The subtle yet sweet persimmon, with its vibrant orange hues mirrors the changing leaves outside. I’ve carefully melded the sweet, honeyed notes of fresh persimmon with the spice of star anise, and the licorice notes of ruby red tea, to give a beautifully balanced drink.

Whether taken as a mocktail, or spiced with a shot (or two) of gin, this autumn drink is perfect to cozy up with.

Persimmon Tea-Collins

*Serves 1

Ingredients

2 persimmons + a few slices to garnish
½ cup + 100ml water, divided
½ cup sugar
1 lemon juiced + a few slices to garnish
2 whole star anise
3g ruby red tea
Ice cubes
Soda water to top
40ml (1.5oz) gin*

*optional for cocktail

Instructions

To Make Spiced Persimmon Syrup:

Combine ½ cup sugar with ½ cup water in a saucepan on medium heat.
Add 2 persimmons, diced, 2 whole star anise and ½ cup of fresh lemon juice
Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 20 minutes
Puree and refrigerate to cool

To brew Ruby Red Tea:

Pour 100ml of water at 90 degrees celsius over 3g of ruby red tea
Steep for 40 seconds and pour out tea liqueur
Set aside to cool

To assemble:

Fill a glass with ice
Pour 60ml persimmon syrup, 20ml fresh lemon juice and 100ml of tea in a shaker, and shake
Pour over ice and garnish with fresh lemon wedges, persimmon slices and star anise
Top glass with soda, stir, and enjoy!

* optional, spike with a shot of gin

Written by Mona's sister and recipe whiz, Sherina Jhunjhnuwala ♥