This is the perfect refreshing summer drink. Once you've tried the homemade version, you'll never return to a commerical brand.

Ingredients

• 500 gram packet barley
• 3 litres water
• finely grated rind and juice of 6 lemons
• about a cup of sugar or more to taste

Method

1. Place the barley in a strainer and pour boiling water on top to scald the barley. This will help keep the barley water a good clear colour.
2. Bring the barley and water to the boil and allow to simmer for 20 minutes. Remove it from the heat and allow to stand for 5 minutes.
3. Carefully strain through a muslin-lined stainer into a jug and stir in the sugar. Allow to stand for about 4 hours and then strain off again to achieve a clearer liquid. Stir in the lemon rind and juice and then make up to 2 litres with iced water.
4. Refrigerate until chilled. Serve in a glass jug and tall glasses, with ice and lemon slices.