Sweet Summer Coolers (April 2015)

What’s your favorite summer drink? (Photo not mine)

Blessed with fresh produce, we are lucky to have some of the world’s sweetest fruits and vegetables made available in our local farmer’s market. On days when we crave for a drink, we can always blend, whip or puree coolers and mixes in no time. However, did you know that you can also make quenchers without using fruits or vegetables? YES!

Aside from the usual fresh fruit shakes and blends, our pantry treasures can verily provide and be converted into something delectable in a snap. Here, you need not have many ingredients – just a handful to help you create something special on any given day. Remember, you can always substitute.

Peanut Butter Frappe

Peanut butter is not only for sandwiches but more as a thirst quencher.
In a blender, puree ¼ cup of smooth, creamy peanut butter and 1 cup unsweetened milk (or any milk of your choice) until smooth. Pour in a glass with chocolate syrup. Serve.

Whimsical Blend 
Mix and match food flavours to create another level of delicious flavour for you to enjoy.

In a glass, scoop some vanilla ice cream. In another glass, mix equal part of grape juice (you can also use cranberry cocktail) and sparkling soda (you can use sprite or any other fruit soda of your choice). Slowly pour over ice cream.

Horchata

A traditional drink made from sesame seeds, ground almonds and rice.

In a blender, pour 1 cup of sweetened rice milk (you can also use almond milk or soy) and a pinch of cinnamon powder. Blend with ice until smooth. If you want to make thicker and richer, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Horchata (image from vapenaked.com)

Milkshake

Always a favourite, I love mine coffee flavoured.

In a blender, combine 2 cups of vanilla ice cream, 1 cup milk (you can use whole milk or almond or soy milk), ½ cup black coffee and 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder. Blend until smooth and serve. You can mix and match flavours to your liking – match powder, mocha, strawberry and even mint.

Milkshake (image from http://www.flipburgerboutique.com)

Caramel Frappuccino

Here’s a take on the all-time favourite Frappuccino we all line up in stores. Now, you can re-create this sweet and heavenly goodness at home anytime, any day.

In a blender, pour 2 cups ice, 1 cup strong coffee (black or espresso), 1 cup almond milk (or nay milk), 1/3 cup caramel sauce (if you don’t have this, you can also use organic honey) and 3 tablespoons white sugar. Blend on high until smooth. Pour into glass and top with cream and caramel sauce.

Make #TheRoyalChef your Thursday habit. Follow and tag me on instagram (@theroyalchefleebai) for your delicious food finds!