Jet-black layered beverage featuring blackberry syrup, activated charcoal, and citrus notes for a bold flavor.
# Ingredient list:
→ Blackberry Syrup
01 - 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 cup water
04 - 1 tsp lemon juice
→ Charcoal Base
05 - 1/4 tsp food-grade activated charcoal powder
06 - 1 cup cold sparkling water
07 - 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
08 - 1 tsp agave syrup (or simple syrup), to taste
→ Garnish & Assembly
09 - Crushed ice
10 - Blackberries, for garnish
11 - Lemon or lime wheels, for garnish
12 - Fresh mint sprigs (optional)
# Step-by-step guide:
01 - In a small saucepan, combine blackberries, sugar, and water. Simmer over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes while mashing berries gently. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve. Discard solids and allow syrup to cool.
02 - Fill two tall glasses with crushed ice. In a small pitcher, mix sparkling water, activated charcoal, lime juice, and agave syrup. Stir until charcoal is fully dissolved and mixture is uniformly black.
03 - Pour the charcoal base into each glass, filling about three-quarters full. Slowly drizzle 2 tablespoons of blackberry syrup over the back of a spoon atop each glass to create a layered appearance. Garnish with fresh blackberries, a lemon or lime wheel, and optional mint sprigs. Serve immediately.
