Popsicles aren't just for kids. This duo of popsicles got a grown-up makeover with the help of powerful healing plants, divinely engineered to keep you hydrated, hormonally balanced, and cool. Both are refreshing, on the tamer side of sweet, and supercharged with herbs to encourage a summertime glow.
Basil-Creamiscle Popsicle
This sparkling mimosa of a popsicle (sans alcohol) is overflowing with antioxidants and superfoods. With vitamin-C rich citrus juice as the base, the creaminess comes from a blend of homemade goji and schisandra-infused plant-mylk—both are potent adaptogens and known beauty allies for skin and hormone health. Then, with a sprig of basil and crush of vanilla bean, this vibrant pop offers a multidimensional, jubilant sweet flavor without being saccharine. Though the marshmallow root powder is optional, it is highly recommended especially with these high temperatures as it is a "slippery herb." When consumed, these herbs cool, calm, and repair the membrane tissues in our mast cells and nerves, strengthening water barriers, cellular integrity, and hydrate the body on a profound level.
Ingredients:
- 2 cup of fresh citrus juice
- 1 cup of Orange Mylk (or plant-based milk of choice)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon sweetener ( or more to taste if necessary)
- 1-2 fresh sprigs of basil, roughly chopped
- ½ teaspoon fresh vanilla bean
- Optional: 1 teaspoon marshmallow root powder
Directions:
1. Combine citrus juice, orange mylk, vanilla, sweetener, and optional marshmallow in a bowl and whisk well.
2. Pour mixture into popsicle molds and place a few pieces of basil into each pop.
3. Place in freezer. After one hour, insert popsicle sticks in and freeze for at least an additional four hours or until frozen.
Watermelon-Berry Popsicle
Developed by food alchemist and avid plant home cook, Sasha, this popsicle is a tribute to her childhood summers: Picking fresh strawberries on the coast, eating entire watermelons by herself, and looking for wild roses. It combines some of the iconic tastes of summer and allows them to shine, just as they are. In addition to being delicious, this popsicle has healing elements from rose, tulsi, and basil. It’s an uplifting, restorative, and heart-opening blend of herbs that can help ease stress and nourish your spirit.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fresh strawberries
- 2 cups cubed watermelon
- 3 tablespoons dried rose petals
- 2 tablespoons Tulsi (also called holy basil)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon additional rose petals
Directions:
For this recipe, you can make a hot or cold infusion.
To make a hot infusion: Pour boiling water over 3 teaspoons rose petals and tulsi in a heatproof jar or teapot. Steep for 10 minutes and taste. if you like it stronger, steep for 20 minutes.
For a cold infusion: Place herbs into at least 4 cups of water and place at room temperature or in the fridge for 4-8 hours. Once steeping is complete, strain well.
1. Blend together the strawberries, watermelon, and basil. Once well blended, add in herbal infusion a half a cup at a time.
2. After you add a half cup of liquid, stop blending and taste. Repeat this step until the taste is to your liking. The pop should be fruity first and floral or herby second. If you want it sweeter, add more fruit. If you prefer more floral notes, add more infusion or additional rose petals.
3. Pour the fruit and herb infusion into your popsicle molds and freeze for one hour. After one hour, insert popsicle sticks in and freeze for at least an additional four hours or until frozen.
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