Lemon Shikangvi Nimbu Paani Lemonade

About this recipe.Lemon Shikangvi Nimbu Paani Lemonade (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  households.

 Lime and lemons are interchangeable, and the URDU 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 cooking.

What sets this nimbu pani apart from regular lemonade is the use of ‘kala namak’ or  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  salt that is used in Indian cooking and comes from the Himalayan region. It is commonly used in chutneys and snacks. It is also sprinkled on fruits to add taste and flavor.

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

Ingredients- Lemon Shikangvi Nimbu Paani Lemonade

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

Kala namak: Black  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 or stevia sweetener can also be used.

Mint leaves: This is optional and can be skipped.

Spices: Ground cumin, ground pepper, and salt.

Useful tips and variations of Lemon Shikangvi Nimbu Paani Lemonade

Both lime and lemon can be used to make shikanjvi.

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

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

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

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