Orange Lemonade - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 3/4 c. sugar
2 1/2 c. water
8 lemons
lemon slices (optional)
1 sprig fresh mint (optional)
4 to 5 oranges
ice cubes
water

Preparation

In medium saucepan, combine sugar and water.
Cook over medium heat until sugar is dissolved, stirring constantly.
Cool.
Finely shred enough orange and lemon peel to make 2 tablespoons.
Set aside.
Squeeze juice from the lemons and 1 1/2 cups orange juice. Add juices and peel to the cooled syrup.
If desired, pour over mint sprig, cover and let stand 1 hour.
Strain mixture; pour into jars and cover.
Refrigerate.
To serve, fill glasses or pitcher with ice cubes.
Pour equal amounts of fruit syrup and water over ice.
Stir to combine.
If desired, garnish with lemon slices. Makes 6 cups fruit syrup or 12 (8 ounce) servings of orange-lemonade.