• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Easy Indian Cookbook
  • Recipes
  • Basics
  • Collections
  • About
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Basics
  • Collections
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • YouTube
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Basics
    • Collections
    • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Recipes » Beverages

    Nimbu Pani / Shikanji (Indian Limeade)

    Published: Apr 26, 2022 · Modified: Jan 30, 2023 by Shilpa · This post may contain affiliate links · 17 Comments

    Jump to Recipe
    5 from 56 votes
    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!
    nimbu paani.

    Nimbu pani or shikanji recipe.

    Jump to:
    • About this recipe
    • Ingredients
    • Useful tips and variations
    • FAQs
    • Bonus
    • Recipe card
    • Comments

    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.

    shikanji.

    Related: Starbucks-style iced chai latte.

    Ingredients

    nimbu paani ingredient with labels.

    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.

    nimbu paani.

    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.

    a jug of indian limeade.

    More refreshing summer drinks:

    1. Elderflower cordial.
    2. Summer sunrise mocktail.

    FAQs

    What are the benefits of nimbu paani?

    This refreshing shikanji helps you stay hydrated and gives energy during hot summer days. It is also a very good source of vitamin C and also aids digestion.

    Is shikanji same as nimbu paani?

    It is very similar but some spices may vary depending on the region. This drink is popular as shikanji in North India and nimbu panu in the Mumbai region.

    Can I make shikanji ahead of time?

    Yes. This Indian limeade can be made and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. However, if you are planning to make it ahead, do not add the mint leaves. Add them just before serving.

    What is kala namak?

    Kala namak is 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.

    indian lemonade.

    Related: Mango nectar.

    Bonus

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

    glass of nimbu paani.

    Recipe card

    nimbu paani.

    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.

    More Beverages

    • indian mango milkshake.
      Mango Mastani Recipe (Indian Mango Milkshake)
    • mango juice.
      Mango Juice Recipe (Mango Nectar)
    • blackberry lassi.
      Blackberry Lassi
    • iced chai tea latte.
      Iced Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      Leave a Reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe Rating




    1. Bianca says

      April 27, 2022 at 6:23 pm

      5 stars
      This was the first time I have tried this drink and I am obsessed! So good

    2. jean says

      April 27, 2022 at 7:40 pm

      5 stars
      love this indian style lemonade, Im glad I have all the spices needed.

    3. Natalie says

      April 28, 2022 at 10:23 am

      5 stars
      What an exotic lemonade. I never tried it before. But I definitely will. I love added cumin. How interesting.

    4. nancy says

      April 28, 2022 at 10:26 pm

      5 stars
      super reffreshing and perfect for summer!

    5. Jacqui says

      May 01, 2022 at 1:25 pm

      5 stars
      The cumin and ground pepper give this lemonade such a nice kick!

    6. Cindy says

      May 01, 2022 at 6:27 pm

      5 stars
      So delicious and refreshing! I'm making this all summer long!

    7. dave says

      May 01, 2022 at 8:45 pm

      5 stars
      such a tasty and refreshing cocktail!

    8. Katie says

      May 01, 2022 at 10:48 pm

      5 stars
      So refreshing and perfect for summer, will be a staple for sure!

    9. Pippa says

      June 01, 2022 at 4:37 am

      5 stars
      It looks so delicious! I'm going to make this at the weekend, when we are having an indian feast for tea.
      Thank you
      Pippa

    10. Shilpa says

      June 02, 2022 at 1:02 am

      Thank you, Pippa. I hope you enjoy it 🙂
      - Shilpa

    11. Mandy Applegate says

      June 15, 2022 at 4:34 am

      5 stars
      This transported me straight back to India - I loved drinking nimbu pani and this recipe was perfect!

    12. Glenda says

      June 15, 2022 at 5:44 am

      5 stars
      This lemonade is like no other I have ever tasted. The flavor is so much more complex and I like that it doesn't have that sickly sweetness so common in other lemonade. Thanks for sharing the yummy recipe!

    13. Lynn Polito says

      June 15, 2022 at 6:54 am

      5 stars
      This is so refreshing and delicious! I loved it!

    14. Sherry says

      June 15, 2022 at 11:14 am

      5 stars
      My kids love limeade so I had to try your Indian Limeade version. So easy to make and the flavor profile is amazing!! You have to try the summertime non-alcoholic cocktail!!

    15. Jenn says

      June 17, 2022 at 10:18 am

      5 stars
      This is amazing! The cumin really made this refreshing drink stand out! Loved it!

    16. Shilpa says

      June 17, 2022 at 5:38 pm

      I am so glad you enjoyed it, Jenn. Thank you.

    Primary Sidebar

    Namaste and welcome to Easy Indian Cookbook, where you'll find simple and delicious recipes with an Indian flair! I'm Shilpa, and I'm passionate about bringing the flavors of my culture to your kitchen. Discover the convenience of wholesome and nourishing Indian cuisine with my recipes, crafted to be quick and hassle-free. So join me on this culinary journey, and let's create delicious, homemade meals that celebrate the vibrant and diverse flavors of India! Read More…

    Spring Favorites

    • Grilled paneer salad.
      Grilled Paneer Salad
    • samosa chaat.
      Samosa Chaat
    • Peas paratha.
      Peas Paratha (Matar Paratha)
    • shrimp coconut curry.
      EASY Shrimp Coconut Curry in Instant Pot

    Food for Fast (Vrat/Upvas)

    • sabudana khichdi.
      Sabudana Khichdi (Authentic Maharashtrian Style Recipe)
    • sabudana kheer.
      Sabudana Kheer / Tapioca Pudding (Instant Pot)
    • Phool makhana.
      Makhana Chivda / Phool Makhana Namkeen
    • mango juice.
      Mango Juice Recipe (Mango Nectar)
    • Food for Fast (Vrat ka Khana / Upwas Recipes)

    Indian New Year recipes

    • Besan ladoo.
      Mom's Besan Ladoo (Besan Laddu Recipe + Video)
    • Milk barfi.
      Milk Barfi (Milk Powder Burfi) - 15 minutes
    • akki kadalebele payasa.
      Chana Dal Payasam (Instant Pot)
    • Almond halwa.
      Instant Pot Badam Halwa (with almond meal)
    • rasgulla.
      Rasgulla Recipe / Bengali Sponge Roshogolla
    • semiya payasam
      Semiya Payasam / Vermicelli Kheer in Instant Pot

    Popular Recipes

    • perfectly cooked naan bread.
      Homemade Naan Recipe (Easy No-Knead Recipe + Video)
    • aloo gobi.
      Aloo Gobi / Potato Cauliflower Curry
    • lamb palak.
      Lamb Palak / Saag Gosht (Lamb and Spinach Curry)
    • egg puffs recipe.
      Egg Puff / Bakery style Egg Puffs
    • bombay potatoes.
      Bombay Potatoes
    • Instant Pot goat curry.
      Instant Pot Goat Curry (Mutton Curry)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • About Me

    Privacy Policy

    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer

    Contact

    • Contact

    COPYRIGHT © 2023 EASYINDIANCOOKBOOK.COM