Longans can be eaten directly, but soaking them in water also has a unique flavor. Why not learn how to make red date and longan water together!
First, wash the red dates, then cut them in half with a small knife and remove the pits. Peel and pit the longans as well, then wash both ingredients.
Next, put the red dates, longans, and rock sugar into a pot. Add water, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes until the liquid has reduced.
While simmering, keep the heat low and stir the mixture with a spoon to mash the dates into a paste, while also reducing the liquid.
Finally, let the cooked dates cool down, mix in honey, and then store them in a clean glass jar to seal.
When you want to drink it, just take a portion out, mix it with warm water, stir, and enjoy.
Although longan water has many benefits, drinking too much can easily lead to "heatiness" (internal heat), so it's something to be mindful of.