Georgian: Tarkhun (Tarragon Soft Drink)

Recipe by Paul Young <info@cooking-with-paul.com>

(makes approx 4 servings)

Tarkhun is a fizzy green soft drink that originated in Georgia. Essentially a herbal lemonade, this refreshing drink is very popular in former Soviet countries. The distinctive green color comes from fresh tarragon, the licorice notes come from aniseed or fennel seeds, and sweetened fresh lemon juice creates the sweet-sour balance. Bottled Tarkhun is available at Georgian restaurants, but is difficult to find elsewhere. This homemade version is easy to make and tastes even better than the commercial version.

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 bunch fresh tarragon, plus more for granish
• 1 teaspoon aniseed or fennel seeds
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 pinch salt
• Ice
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Seltzer water
• Lemon slice (for garnish)

Procedure:

1. In a small saucepan, heat sugar and water until sugar dissolves
2. Add tarragon, aniseed, lemon zest, baking soda, and a pinch of salt; boil 1 minute, then let cool 5 minutes
3. Transfer to blender with ½ cup ice and blend until smooth; refrigerate at least 1 hour, then strain
4. To serve: fill each glass with ice, add a squeeze of lemon juice and 2 ounces of tarragon sugar syrup; top off with seltzer water and stir
5. Garnish with lemon slice and/or fresh tarragon sprig (optional)

Note: If you wish to match the vibrant green color of commercially bottled Tarkhun, you can also add a couple drops of green food coloring.