Litchi & Mint Infused Water
A delicately fragrant and refreshing infused water that combines the sweet, floral notes of fresh litchi with the cooling burst of mint. Perfect for hot summer days, this naturally flavored water keeps you hydrated without any added sugar. Let it sit overnight for the best flavor, and enjoy the subtle transformation of plain water into a spa-like treat.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Prepare the litchi.
Peel 12 fresh litchis and remove the seeds. Cut each litchi in half to expose the juicy flesh. This helps release their sweetness into the water faster.
- prep · ~1 min
Prepare the mint.
Take a handful of fresh mint leaves and gently crush them between your palms or with a wooden spoon. Crushing bruises the leaves just enough to release their essential oils without making them bitter. Keep a few small sprigs aside for garnish.
- assemble · ~1 min
Layer ingredients in a pitcher.
1.Place the halved litchis at the bottom of a large pitcher.2.Add the crushed mint leaves on top of the litchis.3.Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the ingredients.TIPMuddle the litchis very gently with a wooden spoon if you prefer a slightly more intense lychee flavor. - mix · ~1 min
Add water and steep.
Pour 4 cups of chilled water into the pitcher. Stir gently with a wooden spoon to combine. Cover the pitcher with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, let it steep overnight.
TIPThe longer it sits, the more pronounced the flavors become. Avoid steeping beyond 24 hours, or the mint may turn slightly bitter. - serve · ~1 min
Strain and serve over ice.
Give the infused water a final stir. Pour it into glasses filled with ice cubes, using a small strainer if you prefer to catch any loose mint bits. Garnish each glass with a fresh mint sprig or a whole litchi on the rim.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use ripe, fragrant litchis for the sweetest, most floral water—underripe ones will taste bland.
- 2Crush mint leaves gently—excessive force releases bitter compounds that spoil the drink.
- 3Steep for at least 2 hours, but overnight (8-12 hours) gives the deepest, most balanced flavor.
- 4Do not steep beyond 24 hours, or the mint can turn the water bitter and the litchi may ferment.
- 5Strain through a fine-mesh sieve before serving if you prefer a crystal-clear, pulp-free drink.
- 6Chill all ingredients and water beforehand so you don't need to dilute with many ice cubes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sparkling Twist
Replace half the still water with chilled sparkling water just before serving for a fizzy, soda-like refreshment that lightens the mouthfeel.
Berry Litchi FusionBerry-Litchi Fusion
Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries along with the litchi for a more complex berry-floral sweetness and a beautiful pink hue.
Ginger Litchi KickGinger-Litchi Kick
Add 4-5 thin slices of fresh ginger to the pitcher. This gives a gentle spicy warmth that contrasts the sweet litchi, perfect for a digestive boost.
Herbal Swap (Basil)Herbal Swap (Basil)
Substitute the mint with equal amounts of fresh Thai basil or lemon basil for an anise-like, peppery twist that pairs surprisingly well with the floral litchi.
Cucumber Litchi CoolerCucumber-Litchi Cooler
Add 1/2 cup of thinly sliced cucumber along with the litchi. Cucumber adds a crisp, vegetal freshness that keeps the drink supremely hydrating and spa-like.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Hydration Boost
Naturally flavored water encourages higher fluid intake, supporting hydration, digestion, and skin health without added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Rich in Vitamin C
Litchi is a good source of vitamin C, and the added lemon juice further boosts this antioxidant content, which helps support immune function.
Digestive Aid
Fresh mint is traditionally used to soothe the stomach and alleviate bloating, making this drink a gentle digestive tonic after meals.
Low in Calories
This infused water contains no added sugar or sweeteners, providing a flavorful, almost zero-calorie beverage suitable for weight management.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but canned litchi is often packed in syrup, so rinse well first. Frozen litchi works; thaw and drain excess liquid before using for the cleanest flavor.
