Once upon a time . . .
. . . about 30 years ago, at the beginning of my gardening, herbal, & speaking life, I would serve a jug of ice water flavored with herbs, edible flowers and fruits, etc., at most of the gardening presentations and demonstrations I gave. It was an easy way to serve a little taste of what I was encouraging audiences to grow.
I know what you are thinking –
“But that’s just infused water.”
Well, and, you are so right, but, infused water wasn’t a thing back then, not like it is now. These days I go into my bank and right there in the lobby is a big jug of ice water with fruit, usually lemons, but sometimes peaches or nectarines, along with little paper cups for the patrons to enjoy.
At.
The.
Bank.
I called it Froofy Water back then and I still call it Froofy Water now. You, of course, can call it infused water if you want.
Anise Hyssop, Agastache foeniculum, has been, is still, a key ingredient in my Froofy Water recipe. It’s been a classic addition to my multitude of Froofy Waters served over the years, so much so that Froofy Water made it into my chapter of the International Herb Association’s 2019 Herb of the Year book. Get your copy now!
Anise is a sweet flavor profile making Anise Hyssop a sweet member of the mint family that plays well with lemons and other fruits and flowers in water, subtly sweetening it without sugar. 
Froofy Water
– fruits, such as citrus, apples and berries . . .
– herbs, such as mint, lemon verbena, kaffir lime leaves, etc., . . .
– edible flowers, such as Anise Hyssop, lavender, calendula, unsprayed roses, vitex, scented geraniums, etc., . . .
– filtered water. (If your tap water tastes of chlorine so will your Froofy Water.)
– ice made with filtered water. (See above. If your ice is old and/or made with tap water and has taken on refrigeration odors it will affect your beverages adversely)
– put all in a big jug and serve!
You can also buy the book in person this Saturday, August 3rd, 11am at Pearson’s Garden and Herb Farm, 1150 Beverly Dr., Vista, CA by coming to hear me speak on growing the Herb of the Year!
Guess what I’m serving?
Are you growing Anise Hyssop in your yard?
What delicious things are you making with it? Do tell!
