If you are wondering what to do in the summer holidays, why not try some new and exciting drink recipes for the hot summer sun? Perhaps a refreshing drink to cool off and recharge or a fun drink to make with your kids on their summer holidays, supercharge your summer beverages with the health-boosting power of medicinal mushroom powders.
These fungi are not only packed with potential nutrients but also offer unique flavours that can elevate your drinks. Below, we’ve crafted three delicious and revitalising summer drink recipes featuring some of the best mushroom powders: Agaricus, Antrodia, Chaga, Cordyceps, Lion's Mane, Maitake, Oyster, Reishi, Shiitake, and Turkey Tail.
1. Citrus Sunshine with Reishi and Lion’s Mane
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup coconut water
- 1 tsp Reishi mushroom powder
- 1 tsp Lion’s Mane mushroom powder
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the orange juice, coconut water, Reishi mushroom powder, Lion’s Mane mushroom powder, and honey (if using). Blend until smooth.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes, pour the blended mixture over the ice, and stir well.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Potential Benefits:
This drink is a powerhouse for both your brain and body. Reishi is known for its potential calming properties, which may help to reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Lion’s Mane is celebrated for its potential cognitive benefits, potentially enhancing memory and focus. Paired with the hydrating coconut water and vitamin C-rich orange juice, this drink is perfect for a mid-morning pick-me-up or a calming evening refresher.
2. Berry Blast Antioxidant Smoothie with Chaga and Shiitake
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 1/2 banana
- 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 tsp Chaga mushroom powder
- 1 tsp Shiitake mushroom powder
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Add the mixed berries, banana, almond milk, Chaga mushroom powder, Shiitake mushroom powder, and chia seeds to a blender.
- Blend until creamy and smooth. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice just before serving for an extra zing.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy!
Potential Benefits:
Packed with potential antioxidants, this vibrant smoothie is a great way to start your day. Chaga mushroom is potentially renowned for its immune-boosting properties and high antioxidant content, possibly helping to protect your cells from oxidative stress. Shiitake mushrooms are known for their potential cardiovascular benefits, supporting heart health. The mixed berries add a natural sweetness and additional possible antioxidants, while the chia seeds provide potential fibre and omega-3s for lasting energy.
3. Tropical Cordyceps Cooler with Maitake and Turkey Tail
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup mango juice
- 1 tsp Cordyceps mushroom powder
- 1 tsp Maitake mushroom powder
- 1 tsp Turkey Tail mushroom powder
- 1 tbsp coconut cream
- Ice cubes
- Pineapple slices and shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
- In a shaker or blender, combine the pineapple juice, mango juice, Cordyceps mushroom powder, maitake mushroom powder, turkey tail mushroom powder, and coconut cream.
- Shake or blend until well mixed and frothy.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes, pour the tropical mixture over the ice, and stir.
- Garnish with a slice of pineapple and a sprinkle of shredded coconut for an island vibe.
Potential Benefits:
This tropical cooler is as nourishing as it is delicious. Cordyceps mushrooms are prized for their potential ability to boost energy levels and may enhance physical performance, making this drink an excellent pre-workout choice. Maitake mushrooms may support immune health and are packed with beta-glucans, whilst Turkey Tail mushrooms are known for their potential gut health benefits. Combined with the refreshing and hydrating qualities of pineapple and mango, this drink will keep you cool and invigorated all summer long.
Summary:
These mushroom-infused drinks are not only refreshing but also offer an array of potential health benefits, making them a fantastic addition to your summer wellness routine. Whether you’re looking to potentially boost your energy, enhance cognitive function, or simply enjoy a tasty and nutritious drink, these recipes have you covered. Cheers to a healthy and revitalising summer!