Nimbu Pani / Shikanji (Indian Limeade)

Nimbu pani or shikanji recipe.

About this recipe

Nimbu shikanji or shikanjvi is an Indian-style limeade (or lemonade) made with lime (or lemon), water, salt, sugar, and a few optional spices. This refreshing Indian lemonade is super easy to make and perfect for summer. It is one of the most common drinks during summer and is made in almost all Indian households.

In India, lime and lemons are interchangeable, and the Hindi word for both is 'nimbu'. Lemons are smaller in size and are very similar to limes. Green, unripe lemons are quite common which looks similar to lime, and ripe limes that are yellow are also used. There is no clear distinction between the two in Indian cooking.

What sets this nimbu pani apart from regular lemonade is the use of 'kala namak' or Indian black salt/Himalayan black salt. It is an essential ingredient in making this masala shikanjvi and cannot be skipped. The rest of the ingredients can vary and can be customized. Nimbu paani recipe varies from region to region and every household has its own favorite way of making it.

Kala namak is a sulfurous pungent-smelling black Indian salt that is used in Indian cooking and comes from the Himalayan region. It is commonly used in chutneys, snacks, kachumber salad, and raita. It is also sprinkled on fruits to add taste and flavor. Black salt has been mentioned in Ayurveda and is considered a cooling spice that is used as a healing agent.

Read on to see the ingredients and variations to make this Indian limeade that is very hydrating during summer and gives energy.

Related: Starbucks-style iced chai latte.

Ingredients

Lime: This is the main ingredient. As I mentioned, both lime and lemon can be used to make shikanji.

Kala namak: Black Indian salt or black Himalayan salt is an essential ingredient and cannot be skipped.

Sugar: I use raw sugar in this recipe; however, plain white sugar can also be used.

Mint leaves: This is optional and can be skipped.

Spices: Ground cumin, ground pepper, and salt.

Useful tips and variations

Both lime and lemon can be used to make shikanji.

All spices are optional except black Indian salt. This is the only essential spice.

Turn this humble nimbu pani into a cocktail by adding vodka or jin.

You can also use club soda instead of water to make nimbu soda.

Nimbu pani can be infused with berries to make berry lemonade.

Serve it up with this delicious Indian popcorn at bbq and gatherings.

More refreshing summer drinks:

1. Elderflower cordial.
2. Summer sunrise mocktail.

FAQs

Related: Mango nectar.

Bonus

This Indian limeade is:
- very easy to make,
- refreshing and healthy,
- perfect for hot summer days.

Recipe card

Nimbu Pani / Shikanji (Indian Limeade)

Looking for a refreshing and delicious drink to beat the heat? My Nimbu Pani recipe is the perfect solution! This traditional Indian limeade/lemonade is made with fresh lime juice (or lemon juice), sugar, a hint of salt, and a few optional spices, making it the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Whether you're lounging in the sun or need a quick pick-me-up, this drink is sure to quench your thirst and leave you feeling refreshed. So, grab a glass and get ready to enjoy the cool and zesty flavors of Nimbu Pani!

5 from 56 votes

Print Pin Rate

Author: Shilpa

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: Indian

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 3-4 lime (or lemon)
• 4 glasses water
• 4 tablespoon sugar or as per taste
• ¾ teaspoon black salt
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cumin powder optional
• ⅛ teaspoon ground pepper optional
• 4-5 mint leaves
• Ice cubes as needed

Instructions

• Combine lime juice, water, sugar, salt, black salt, ground pepper, cumin powder, and mint leaves in a jug. Mix well.
• Taste and adjust the sugar as per your preference.
• Pour ice cubes in glasses and put the nimbu paani on top. Serve immediately.
• Alternatively, chill in the refrigerator and serve as needed.

Notes

See the tips section for useful tips and variations of nimbu pani shikanji.

Nutrition Facts

Nimbu Pani / Shikanji (Indian Limeade)

Amount per Serving

Calories

63

% Daily Value*

Fat

 

1

g

2

%

Saturated Fat

 

1

g

6

%

Polyunsaturated Fat

 

1

g

Monounsaturated Fat

 

1

g

Sodium

 

595

mg

26

%

Potassium

 

60

mg

2

%

Carbohydrates

 

17

g

6

%

Fiber

 

2

g

8

%

Sugar

 

13

g

14

%

Protein

 

1

g

2

%

Vitamin A

 

70

IU

1

%

Vitamin C

 

15

mg

18

%

Calcium

 

28

mg

3

%

Iron

 

1

mg

6

%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.