With the arrival of summer, the desire for cold drinks increases, for which ice is almost always used. Too bad for the usual inconvenience, which sees the ice cubes melt and end up watering down juices, iced teas, non-alcoholic cocktails and even wine. To avoid the problem there is a very simple remedy, in which grapes are frozen to be used instead of ice. This is a little home trick that has been suggested by cooking enthusiasts and sommeliers for years, especially when you want to cool a drink without changing its flavor.
Why frozen grapes work
The principle is the same as ice cubes: the grapes, once frozen, absorb heat from the drink and lower its temperature. Unlike ice, however, they do not release water during use, and the result is a drink that remains fresh without losing flavor intensity. Furthermore, grapes naturally contain a lot of water, but it is enclosed within the skin and, as long as the grape remains intact, the liquid does not mix with the drink. Once the drink is finished, the grains can also be eaten, becoming a fresh and pleasant snack on the hottest days.
How to prepare frozen grapes
Preparation takes a few minutes, simply wash the grapes thoroughly, dry them carefully and arrange them on a tray in a single layer. After a few hours in the freezer they can be transferred to a container or food bag and stored until needed. White grapes are particularly suitable for light drinks, while black and red grapes can be an interesting choice for fruit juices, non-alcoholic sangrias and other summer preparations. In any case, the color of the grape does not affect the ability to cool the drink.
A useful trick also for wine and non-alcoholic cocktails
Frozen grapes are also often used to keep a glass of white or rosé wine fresh without altering its composition with ice water. The same goes for lemonades, iced teas, flavored water and non-alcoholic cocktails served during summer lunches and aperitifs. Naturally they do not replace ice when you need to quickly cool large quantities of liquid, but they are an excellent solution for a single glass, or to maintain a pleasant temperature for longer.
A small trick that avoids watering down the drinks
Freezing grapes does not require special tools and allows you to always have an alternative to ice cubes available. It does not change the flavor of the drink, helps keep it fresh and, once finished, also offers a natural snack to enjoy. A simple, economical and practical idea that can be useful throughout the summer.
