Shikanji Recipe | Nimbu Pani Recipe

Shikanji is a simple lemon drink that is widely prepared during summer days in India. It is made by mixing fresh lemon juice with water, sugar, salt and some mild spices. Its taste is tangy, a little sweet and a little spicy, so it is very refreshing when the weather becomes very hot and dry.

It is made during summer afternoons or after a heavy meal. A glass of Shikanji cools the body and gives a feeling of freshness. It is a better option than packaged drinks as it uses simple ingredients that are easily available in the kitchen.

about shikanji

Shikanji, also known as nimbu pani in many parts of India, is a traditional summer drink made using lemon juice, water and some simple spices. The taste of this drink is balanced, it is sweet, salty and spicy at the same time. Adding roasted cumin powder and black salt gives a mild spicy taste.

Its texture is light because it consists mostly of water and lemon juice. Fresh lemon brings out the bright citrus flavor while the sugar reduces the sour taste. Roasted cumin powder gives a mild spicy flavor which makes it enjoyable on very hot days. It takes very little time to mix and the ingredients are always present in the kitchen.

Shikanji is quite popular in North India where many street vendors sell it during the summer months. Its large glass jar is often kept cold and served to people walking in the heat. Some changes can be made to give it a different taste like adding soda water, ginger or chaat masala.

I usually make shikanji at home during summer afternoons, when everyone feels thirsty. Sometimes I make a little extra and keep it in the refrigerator so it’s cold for later.

Shikanji material

• Lemon – I used lemon or tart flavor. Adjust the quantity depending on how sour you like. I mix it in water.
• Sugar – I have added it for sweetness and you can adjust it as per your taste to balance the sourness.
• Roasted Cumin Powder – I added it to the drink to taste. It adds a warm earthy spice flavor and makes the drink a little more interesting. Freshly roasted powder usually gives better aroma.
• black salt – I added a small amount to it for its unique spicy taste. It brings a mild spicy taste to the drink. If black salt is not available then you can use regular salt.
• Mint leaves – I put it mainly for decoration and fragrance. Mint gives a fresh smell and cooling sensation while drinking. Sometimes I crush a little so that the flavor comes out more.
• ice cubes – I add it while serving to keep the drink cold. This makes the drink more refreshing during hot weather. If the water is already too cold you can reduce the ice.
• lemon slices – I added it for garnish while serving. This makes the glass look fresh and colorful. It also gently adds a little extra citrus flavor.

similar recipe

How to make Shikanji step by step

Add 1.2 cups of water, add lemon juice to it. Add sugar.

2. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely. Add roasted cumin powder, black salt and salt.

3.Mix well. Get ready with all your materials. Take your serving glass, add ice cubes to it.

4.Add lemon juice. Add lemon slice and mint leaves and serve chilled.

serve chilled!

Expert Tips

• fresh lemon – I usually use fresh lemon to make this drink. Fresh lemon juice gives better taste and natural citrus aroma. Bottled juice does not taste the same.
• balance flavors – I taste the drink once I’ve mixed everything. Then I adjust the sugar or salt depending on the sourness of the lemon.
• Roasting Cumin – I lightly roast cumin at home and grind it fresh. Freshly prepared cumin powder gives strong aroma and better taste to the drink.
• chilling – I like to refrigerate the drink for a while before serving. Cold drinks make one feel more refreshing during summer days.
• mint freshness – I add mint leaves for fresh aroma and the drink seems more cooling.

serving and storage

Serve Shikanji chilled in a tall glass on a hot afternoon or evening. This is the perfect drink when guests come over during summer. You can store this drink in the refrigerator for a day.

general questions and answers

1.Can I use honey?

Yes, you can use honey, the taste will be slightly different but still refreshing.

2.Can I skip black salt?

Yes, it can be omitted if not available. The drink will still taste good.

3.Can I add soda instead of water?

Yes, some people like to add soda water. It gives a fizzy taste similar to street style drinks.

4.Can this drink be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it and keep it in the refrigerator for a few hours. Stir well before serving.

5.Is mint necessary for this recipe?

Mint is not optional in this drink. But it has a fresh aroma that many people enjoy.

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