Add Preferred SourceIf you're looking for a refreshing and delicious drink to beat the heat, my nimbu pani recipe is the perfect solution! This traditional Indian limeade/lemonade strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy and is sure to quench your thirst and leave you feeling refreshed.
Interestingly, in India, the Hindi word 'nimbu' is used interchangeably for both limes and lemons. The smaller, green, unripe lemons are often used in place of limes, while ripe, yellow limes are also used. The lack of a clear distinction between the two in Indian cooking makes Nimbu Pani a versatile drink that can be made with either lime or lemon juice.
While nimbu pani is a popular summer drink in India, its recipe can vary greatly from region to region, with each household having its own favorite way of making it. In this post, I am sharing my family-favorite recipe for this refreshing and energizing Indian limeade.
Why you will love this recipe?
- This tasty and flavorful drink combines the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a popular choice among people of all ages.
- This drink is simple and easy to make and requires just a few basic ingredients. This recipe is highly customizable and can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. I have included some variations below.
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.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Expert Tips and Variations
All spices are optional except black Indian salt. This is the only essential spice.
The key to a good nimbu pani is using fresh lime or lemon juice. Avoid using bottled or concentrated juice, as it can alter the taste.
Make nimbu soda: This variation involves adding soda or sparkling water instead of plain water to it to give it a fizzy texture.
Ginger shikanji: In this variation, ginger juice is added to shikanji, which gives it a slightly spicy and tangy taste.
Make it a cocktail: Elevate this classic nimbu paani by turning it into a refreshing cocktail with a splash of vodka or gin.
Serve it up with this delicious Indian popcorn at BBQs and gatherings.
Recipe FAQs
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.
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.
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.
More refreshing summer drinks
If you tried this Nimbu Pani / Indian Lemonade Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a ? star rating and let me know how it went in the ? comments below.
Recipe card
Nimbu Pani / Shikanji (Indian Limeade)
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
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Bianca says
This was the first time I have tried this drink and I am obsessed! So good
jean says
love this indian style lemonade, Im glad I have all the spices needed.
Natalie says
What an exotic lemonade. I never tried it before. But I definitely will. I love added cumin. How interesting.
nancy says
super reffreshing and perfect for summer!
Jacqui says
The cumin and ground pepper give this lemonade such a nice kick!
Cindy says
So delicious and refreshing! I'm making this all summer long!
dave says
such a tasty and refreshing cocktail!
Katie says
So refreshing and perfect for summer, will be a staple for sure!
Pippa says
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
Shilpa says
Thank you, Pippa. I hope you enjoy it 🙂
- Shilpa
Mandy Applegate says
This transported me straight back to India - I loved drinking nimbu pani and this recipe was perfect!
Glenda says
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!
Lynn Polito says
This is so refreshing and delicious! I loved it!
Sherry says
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!!
Jenn says
This is amazing! The cumin really made this refreshing drink stand out! Loved it!
Shilpa says
I am so glad you enjoyed it, Jenn. Thank you.