Shikanji | Nimbu Pani | Indian Lemonade
Shikanji (Shikanjvi, Shikanjbi, Masala Nimbu Pani) is a traditional Indian Summer Drink or beverage made with lime juice, roasted cumin powder and kala namak. This Indian Lemonade, popular in North India, is incredibly refreshing and provides instant relief from scorching summer heat.
Servings 2 glasses
Ingredients
1 cup is 250 ml, 1 tablespoon is 15 ml and 1 teaspoon is 5 ml measurement
- 3 nos Lime approx 4 to 5 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tbsp Raw Sugar
- ½ tsp Roasted Jeera Powder (Cumin)
- Rock Salt or Kala Namak as per taste
- 2 ½ cups Chilled Water
- Ice Cubes for serving
- Mint Leaves for garnish
- Lemon Slices for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a bowl or pitcher, squeeze fresh lime juice. Add sugar, salt, roasted cumin powder and mix well until the sugar dissolves.
- Pour chilled water, mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- For serving - Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, mint leaves and slices of lime. Pour the shikanji, mix well and serve immediately.
Notes
Recipe Notes
- Quantity of sugar added to the drink depends on sourness from the limes. Taste check and add extra if required.
- Adding lot of ice cubes dilutes the drink. It may require more sugar / salt which can be added just before serving. Note - Always add ice cubes just before serving the drink.
- Leftovers remain fresh for couple of days. During summers, you can make a tall pitcher (minus ice cubes) of this drink and store in the refrigerator.
- Basil Seeds / Chia Seeds - Basil seeds are considered quite cooling and are added in Falooda, Rose Milk and other such Indian beverages. I have made the drink using both the ingredients (separately) and loved the variation.
- You can substitute chilled water with Club Soda or carbonated water, sparkling water or Ginger Ale.
- Shikanji Popsicles - Extra or leftovers can be poured into popsicle molds and frozen. It is a refreshing summer treat for kids and adults.