Fruity thirst quenchers for lazy, hazy days

JAKARTA (JP): There is nothing better at the end of the day, or amid the humidity and heat in the capital at the moment, than to sit down and savor a refreshing fruit drink.

The following recipes, passed down over generations in one family, use the best of tropical fruits and spices to make refreshing and invigorating drinks. The addition of spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg provide them with an extra kick compared to regular fresh squeezed juices and drinks (the recipes featured below are also a great source of much-needed vitamin C). Enjoy!

Exotic Guava Drink

* 200 grams ripe guavas * 100 ml lemon juice * 100 ml water

Spiced caramel syrup: * 100 grams sugar * 5 cm cinnamon sticks * a dash of nutmeg powder * 50 ml hot water

(makes two servings)

1) Rinse guavas, peel and remove the seeds. Mix the first three ingredients in a blender.

2) Meanwhile combine sugar, cinnamon sticks and nutmeg powder in a pan and put it over medium heat until sugar melts and turns brown.

3) Gradually add in water and wait until the mixture turns into a syrupy consistency and the spices release their fragrance.

4) Combine blended guavas, spiced caramel syrup and ice cubes and serve.

Tips:

* commercially available guava juice can be substituted for the fruit. * the simple spiced caramel syrup can be used to spice up your favorite fruit juices and coffee.

Spicy Fruit Drink

* 75 grams papaya, peeled and seeds removed * 75 grams pineapple, peeled * 75 grams apple * 10 cm cinnamon sticks * 2 cloves * A dash of nutmeg * 75 grams sugar * 250 ml hot water

(makes two servings)

1) Cut papaya and pineapple into small cubes.

2) Mix cinnamon sticks, cloves and sugar in a pan and put it over a medium heat until sugar dissolves and turns slightly brown (about six minutes).

3) Gradually pour in water and let it boil until the spices release their fragrance.

4) Add fruits and let boil for another five minutes. Serve cold or warm. (Maria Endah Hulupi)