Lemongrass Limeade

Directions

1. 1
   Take one stalk of lemongrass and trim to 6 inches and remove the dry outer layer. Place stalk on a cutting board and use the flat side of a heavy knife to crush it enough to release its fragrant oils. Cut the lemongrass into 1-inch lengths.
2. 2
   Combine the lemongrass, ginger, sugar, and 1 cups of the water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
3. 3
   Remove the syrup from the heat. Cool for 10 minutes. Strain it into a pitcher. Discard the ginger and the lemon grass.
4. 4
   Add the lime juice and the remaining 41/2 cups water to the pitcher. Chill for 25 minutes. Serve over ice.