Lychee Sangria Recipe

Welcome to our refreshing Lychee Sangria recipe! This delightful drink is perfect for those hot summer days when you want something cool and flavorful to sip on. Our homemade Lychee Sangria combines the sweetness of lychees with the crispness of white wine, creating a tropical and refreshing cocktail that will transport you to a beachside paradise.

Inspired by our travels to Kauai, where we discovered the amazing combination of lychee and white wine, we wanted to create a recipe that captured the essence of that tropical island. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this easy and delicious sangria in no time.

To make our best Lychee Sangria, you’ll need sauvignon blanc, elderflower liqueur, canned lychees in heavy syrup, and limes. We recommend choosing a drier wine like sauvignon blanc or a California Chardonnay to balance out the sweetness of the lychee. The elderflower liqueur, specifically St. Germain, adds a lovely aroma to the sangria and pairs perfectly with the lychee.

Key Takeaways:

• Create a refreshing Lychee Sangria using white wine, elderflower liqueur, canned lychees, and limes.
• Choose a drier white wine like sauvignon blanc or California Chardonnay for the best flavor.
• Elderflower liqueur, such as St. Germain, adds a pleasant aroma to the sangria and pairs well with the lychee.
• Fresh lychees can be found at Asian markets, but canned lychees are more readily available at supermarkets.
• Chill the sangria in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse before serving.

Best White Wine for Sangria

When it comes to creating the perfect sangria, choosing the right white wine is key. The best white wines for sangria are those that complement the fruity and refreshing flavors of the lychee. Here are some top recommendations:

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a popular choice for sangria due to its crisp acidity and citrusy notes. It pairs well with the sweetness of the lychee and adds a touch of brightness to the drink. Try using a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc like Kim Crawford or Matua (2013) for a well-balanced sangria.

California Chardonnay

California Chardonnay is known for its rich and buttery characteristics, which can add depth to your sangria. Look for unoaked or lightly oaked Chardonnays to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors of the lychee. A good choice would be a Chardonnay from Sonoma or Napa Valley.

Pinot Grigio

If you prefer a lighter and more crisp sangria, Pinot Grigio is an excellent option. Known for its refreshing acidity and subtle fruitiness, Pinot Grigio allows the flavors of the lychee to shine through. Look for Italian Pinot Grigios like Santa Margherita or Ecco Domani.

Moscato

For those who enjoy sweeter sangrias, Moscato is a great choice. This aromatic wine with its floral and fruity notes accentuates the natural sweetness of the lychee. Opt for a Moscato d’Asti from Italy, such as Martini or Saracco, for a delightful twist.

“The best white wines for sangria are those that complement the fruity and refreshing flavors of the lychee.”

What is Elderflower Liqueur?

Elderflower liqueur is extracted from the flowers of the European elder tree, also known as Sambucus nigra. The most popular brand of elderflower liqueur is St. Germain, which is widely available. It has a similar aroma to lychee and adds a nice fragrance to the sangria. Other brands of elderflower liqueur can also be used, but it is important to be cautious as some variations may have a slight herby medicinal flavor. Elderflower liqueur can be substituted with the heavy syrup from the canned lychees to enhance the lychee essence in the sangria.

Elderflower liqueur is a crucial ingredient in the lychee sangria recipe. Its delicate floral notes complement the sweetness of the lychee, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. St. Germain is the go-to brand for many mixologists and home bartenders, thanks to its high quality and accessibility. The elderflowers used to produce the liqueur are sourced from the European elder tree, scientifically known as Sambucus nigra.

In addition to St. Germain, there are other brands of elderflower liqueur available in the market. However, it is essential to exercise caution when choosing a substitute. Some variations may possess herbal or medicinal undertones that can alter the taste of the sangria. Selecting a brand that closely resembles the flavor profile of St. Germain is recommended for best results.

If elderflower liqueur is not readily available, an alternative method to infuse the lychee essence in the sangria is by using the heavy syrup from the canned lychees. This substitution can help enhance the lychee flavor in the absence of elderflower liqueur. However, it may not provide the same depth of aroma and complexity that elderflower liqueur imparts.

Where Can I Find Fresh Lychees?

Fresh lychees can be found at Asian markets and occasionally at places like Trader Joe’s, although they may be more expensive at the latter. The skin of fresh lychees varies in color from different shades of red and green. Refrigerated lychees may turn brown, but this doesn’t mean the fruit has gone bad. Canned lychees are more easily available at supermarkets and it is recommended to choose those that list “lychee” as the first ingredient, rather than sugar or water.

If you want to try your hand at using fresh lychees in your recipes, you can visit Asian markets to find them at their best quality and flavor. These markets often import fresh lychees directly from their country of origin, offering a wide selection of varieties. However, keep in mind that the availability of fresh lychees can be limited to certain seasons, so it’s best to check with the market before making a trip.

Trader Joe’s, a popular grocery store chain, occasionally carries fresh lychees in their produce section. While they offer convenience and accessibility, it’s important to note that the prices may be higher compared to Asian markets due to factors such as sourcing and transportation.

If fresh lychees are not readily available or affordable for you, an excellent alternative is canned lychees. Canned lychees are more easily accessible at mainstream supermarkets and grocery stores. They are conveniently packaged, affordable, and retain much of their natural flavor. When purchasing canned lychees, be sure to choose those that list “lychee” as the first ingredient in the ingredient list. This ensures that you are getting the true essence of the fruit rather than a heavily sweetened or diluted version.

Whether you choose to use fresh lychees from Asian markets or canned lychees from supermarkets, both options offer a delightful addition to your recipes. Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create unique dishes that highlight the exquisite flavor of lychees.

Lychee Sangria Recipe

The lychee sangria recipe is an easy and refreshing drink that combines white wine, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, canned lychee, and limes. To make the sangria, mix the Sauvignon Blanc, St. Germain, drained lychees, reserved lychee syrup, and thinly sliced limes in a large pitcher. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse. Stir before serving and serve chilled with ice if desired. Garnish with fresh lychees.

It is important to look for canned lychee with minimal ingredients, preferably just lychees, water, and sugar. Fresh lychees can be substituted for canned lychees, but should be perfectly ripe and sweet.

Enjoy the refreshing and tropical flavors of the lychee sangria recipe. It’s perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply for enjoying a delicious drink on a hot summer day.

Ginger Lychee Sangria Blanca Recipe

Add a delightful twist to your traditional sangria with the Ginger Lychee Sangria Blanca. This sweet and fruity concoction combines the bright flavors of Pinot Grigio white wine, fresh lychee, ginger, lemon, lime, lychee juice, elderflower syrup, and vodka. Perfect for those hot summer days and evenings, this refreshing drink will be the star of any gathering.

To create this tantalizing sangria, gather the following ingredients:

• Julienne ginger
• Lychee with juice (fresh or canned)
• Lemon
• Lime
• Elderflower syrup
• Vodka
• Pinot Grigio wine

Start by infusing the ginger and fresh lychee with the ginger, allowing the flavors to meld together. If fresh lychee isn’t available, canned lychee can be used as a substitute. Next, combine the ginger-infused lychee, lemon, lime, elderflower syrup, vodka, and Pinot Grigio in a large pitcher. Stir gently to ensure all the ingredients are mixed well. Refrigerate the sangria overnight to allow the flavors to fully infuse.

Once chilled, give the sangria a final stir and serve it in glasses filled with ice. The Ginger Lychee Sangria Blanca pairs perfectly with grilled seafood, light salads, or as a standalone refreshing beverage on a hot summer day.

Elevate your summer entertaining with the tantalizing flavors of the Ginger Lychee Sangria Blanca. Enjoy the refreshing blend of ginger, lychee, and elderflower, perfectly complemented by the light and crisp notes of Pinot Grigio. Cheers to a delightful summer!

Rosé Lychee Elderflower Sangria Recipe

The Rosé Lychee Elderflower Sangria is a flirty and feminine twist on traditional sangria that combines the delicate flavors of rosé wine, lychee liqueur, and elderflower syrup. This refreshing recipe also includes Limonata San Pellegrino, soda water, peaches, strawberries, and lemons, adding a burst of fruity goodness to every sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 bottles of dry rosé
• 1/2 bottle of lychee liqueur
• 2 tablespoons of elderflower syrup
• 1 can of Limonata San Pellegrino
• 1 cup of soda water
• 2 peaches, thinly sliced
• 1 cup of strawberries, sliced
• 2 lemons, sliced

To garnish:

• Fresh elderflower or white lilac blossoms

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the rosé, lychee liqueur, elderflower syrup, Limonata San Pellegrino, and soda water.
2. Add the sliced peaches, strawberries, and lemons to the pitcher.
3. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients together.
4. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, give the sangria a gentle stir.
6. Fill glasses with ice and pour the chilled sangria over the ice.
7. Garnish each glass with fresh elderflower or white lilac blossoms.

Adjust the sweetness of the sangria to your taste by adding more or less elderflower syrup, Limonata San Pellegrino, or soda water. You can also experiment with different fruits to customize the recipe to your liking. This Rosé Lychee Elderflower Sangria is best enjoyed chilled and can even be frozen for a slushy texture. Cheers to a refreshing and delightful summer sip!

Additional Sangria Recipes

Looking for more delicious and refreshing sangria recipes to try this summer? Look no further! Here are three fantastic options that are perfect for your next gathering or party.

Mango Pineapple Sangria Slush

If you’re a fan of frozen drinks, you’ll love this Mango Pineapple Sangria Slush. It’s a delightful blended slushie sangria that combines white wine with the vibrant flavors of mango and pineapple. The tropical fruits add a refreshing twist to the classic sangria recipe. Serve it with some ice and garnish with a pineapple wedge for an extra touch of tropical goodness.

Stone Fruit Sangria

For a delightful mix of flavors, try the Stone Fruit Sangria. This recipe combines the light and crisp flavors of rosé wine with a variety of juicy stone fruits like cherries, peaches, and nectarines. The combination of the sweet fruits and the rosé wine creates a delightfully balanced and refreshing drink. It’s the perfect beverage to enjoy on a warm summer day as you relax with friends and family.

Strawberry Peach Sangria

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing sangria option, the Strawberry Peach Sangria is an excellent choice. This recipe combines white wine with the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh strawberries and juicy peaches. To add a little zing, a splash of limoncello and ginger ale is included. The result is a perfectly balanced and refreshing sangria that will be a hit at any summer gathering.

Experiment with these fantastic sangria recipes and discover your favorite combination of flavors. Whether you prefer the tropical taste of the Mango Pineapple Sangria Slush, the mix of stone fruits in the Stone Fruit Sangria, or the lightness of the Strawberry Peach Sangria, there’s a sangria recipe to suit everyone’s taste. Cheers to a summer filled with delicious, fruity, and refreshing drinks!

Conclusion

The Lychee Sangria Recipe is a delightful concoction that perfectly captures the essence of summer. By blending the flavors of white wine, luscious lychees, and fragrant elderflower liqueur, you can create a tropical and fruity sangria that will impress your guests. Whether you choose to use fresh lychees or opt for the convenience of canned lychees, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

But why stop at the classic Lychee Sangria? With the Ginger Lychee Sangria Blanca and the Rosé Lychee Elderflower Sangria as enticing alternatives, there is no shortage of ways to infuse creativity into your summer party. Experiment with different combinations of ingredients and let your taste buds explore the vast possibilities.

So raise a glass, savor the flavors, and toast to a season filled with unforgettable moments and refreshing drinks. The Lychee Sangria Recipe is the perfect companion for your summer gatherings, adding a touch of tropical bliss to every occasion. Cheers to a summer well spent!