Pomegranate, Grapefruit, Lime, and Cayenne Pepper Cough Drops

Sweet and tangy, this Pomegranate, Grapefruit, and Lime recipe is a delicious way to battle coughs and support your immune system. Pomegranate’s antioxidants combine with the vibrant flavors of grapefruit and lime to create a natural remedy that’s as tasty as it is soothing. The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! You can make it into cough drops or, if you don’t have a candy thermometer, simply reduce the mixture by half to enjoy it as a syrup. Whether you prefer drops or syrup, this easy recipe is sure to provide relief and comfort.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh pomegranate seeds

• 1 peeled grapefruit

• Juice of 1 lime

• Equal parts honey (to be determined based on the quantity of fruit juice obtained)

• 1/4 teaspoon grapefruit essential oil

• 1 tablespoon slippery elm powder

• Pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit Mixture:

   • In a blender, combine fresh pomegranate seeds, peeled grapefruit, and lime juice.

   • Blend the mixture until smooth.

2. Create the Base:

   • In a saucepan, heat the blended fruit mixture over medium heat.

   • Add honey in equal parts to the quantity of fruit juice. Stir continuously until well combined.

3. Boil to Candy Phase: OR Make a syrup - just reduce solution into half

   • Using a candy thermometer, bring the mixture to either the candy phase (300 degrees Fahrenheit) or the taffy phase (290 degrees Fahrenheit), depending on your desired consistency.

4. Add Flavor and Soothing Agent:

   • Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from heat.

   • Quickly stir in grapefruit essential oil, slippery elm powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.

5. Mold the Drops:

   • Pour the mixture into silicone molds or onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper and coated in cornstarch.

6. Allow to Set:

   • Let the cough drops sit at room temperature for at least an hour or until completely set.

7. Coat with Cornstarch:

   • For storage, transfer the cough drops to a bowl containing cornstarch.

   • Shake the bowl until the cough drops are fully coated with cornstarch.

8. Storage:

   • Keep the coated cough drops in a cool place to maintain their consistency.

Enjoy these homemade Pomegranate, Grapefruit, Lime, and Cayenne Pepper Cough Drops as a soothing remedy for coughs and sore throats. Adjust the honey and cayenne pepper amounts according to your taste preferences.