🇬🇷 Greece · Drinks
Traditional Greek Orangeade
By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
Refreshing and vibrant, traditional Greek Portokalada is a homemade orange drink that captures the essence of Mediterranean sunshine. Made with fresh orange juice and a simple syrup, it's a perfect thirst-quencher for any time of year.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare the oranges: Wash 4 large, ripe oranges thoroughly. Zest one of the oranges finely, avoiding the bitter white pith. Set the zest aside for later use. Then, juice all four oranges, aiming for about 400-500 ml (1.5-2 cups) of fresh juice.
- 2
Make the simple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar with 250 ml (1 cup) water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture just comes to a simmer. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely.
- 3
Combine ingredients: In a large pitcher or jug, combine the fresh orange juice with the cooled simple syrup. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
- 4
Add zest and lemon (optional): Stir in the reserved orange zest. For an extra bright kick and to balance the sweetness, you can also add the juice of half a lemon at this stage. Taste and adjust to your preference.
- 5
Dilute and chill: Add 500 ml (2 cups) of cold water to the pitcher, or adjust according to your desired strength and sweetness. Stir again. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until thoroughly chilled.
- 6
Serve: Pour the chilled Portokalada into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with a fresh orange slice or a sprig of mint if desired. Stir before serving to redistribute any settled zest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adjust the sweetness of Portokalada?+
Yes, you can easily adjust the amount of sugar in the simple syrup to your preference, or add more water for dilution if you prefer it less sweet.
How long can homemade Portokalada be stored?+
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade Portokalada will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Can I use bottled orange juice?+
For the best and most authentic flavor, fresh-squeezed orange juice is highly recommended. Bottled juice will lack the vibrancy and natural zest.
What type of oranges are best for Portokalada?+
Navel or Valencia oranges are excellent choices as they are juicy and sweet. Choose ripe, firm oranges with smooth, bright skins.
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