Here’s a festive Marian treat for your summertime celebrations! Refreshing & bright, Stella Maris Soda is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the season while also incorporating symbols of Our Lady.
Since lemons – representing fidelity – have long been associated with Mary, we made lemon syrup from fresh-squeezed lemons. Add a little carbonated water, and voila – lemon soda! (You could add still-water instead of fizzy to make lemonade!)
We wandered the rows of flower & herb beds to find another Marian flavor to add – borage flowers were the perfect addition. These beautiful star-shaped flowers, symbolizing courage and humility, range in color from magenta to violet to blue. Also associated with Mary, they call to mind her ancient title of Stella Maris – Star of the Sea. Their light cucumber flavor complements the lemon soda, and they add beautiful pops of color!
Stella Maris Soda
Bright, refreshing lemon soda garnished with borage flowers
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 2 & 2/3 cups sugar
- Lemon zest from 3 lemons
- 2 cups freshly-squeezed lemon juice
- Carbonated water
- Borage flowers
Directions
- Boil the sugar and water until the sugar dissolves, stirring to make sure it doesn’t stick to the pan
- Remove from heat and add lemon zest
- Once completely cool, stir in lemon juice
- Refrigerate syrup and make the soda once it’s completely chilled. Then, fill a 12-oz glass halfway with ice and add 1/4 cup lemon syrup. Fill the rest of the glass with carbonated water and give a gentle stir. Garnish with borage flowers!
Hearthstone Fables 