Masala Shikanji – Nimbu Paani Recipe

Masala Shikanji offers a flavorful twist on classic lemonade. It blends tangy lemon juice with the earthy flavors of black salt. Chaat masala and roasted cumin powder enhance the taste. This spiced beverage is prepared by combining sweetened water, crushed mint leaves, and lemon wedges. Then, it is topped with ice cubes and fizzy soda or Sprite for an invigorating fizz. Perfect for hot summer days, this masala shikanji recipe delivers a refreshing balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. Try this quick and easy Indian lemonade for a burst of flavour in every sip!

What is Shikanji or Nimbu Pani

Shikanji, also known as Nimbu Pani, is a tangy and refreshing Indian lemonade made with lime or lemon. This drink is popular across India, especially in the northern regions. It is a staple during hot and humid summers. Shikanji offers an affordable and effective way to stay hydrated. The core ingredients include lime, water, black salt, and a mix of spices. However, the recipe can vary slightly across regions. This adds a local touch to the drink.

You may have heard of the famous Jain Shikanji if you’ve been to India. It is known for its authentic and flavorful version of this drink. The exact recipe remains a family secret. However, this masala shikanji recipe comes remarkably close in taste. My cousin, who married into the Jain family, confirmed this similarity. You might want to cool down in the summer. You may simply want to enjoy a delicious spiced lemonade. In either case, masala shikanji is the perfect choice.

Method to make Masala Shikanji

Step 1: Prepare Sweetened Water

• Take half a glass of water and dissolve sugar in it completely. This acts as the sweet base for your masala shikanji.

Step 2: Prep Lemon Wedges and Mint Leaves

• Slice one lemon into thin wedges. Crush a few fresh mint leaves to release their aroma and flavor.

Step 3: Assemble in a Jug

• In a large jug, add the crushed mint leaves and lemon wedges. Pour in the prepared sweetened water along with plain water to dilute the mix.

Step 4: Add Fresh Lemon Juice

• Using a lemon squeezer, juice another lemon directly into the jug for a fresh citrus kick.

Step 5: Spice It Up

• Sprinkle in black salt, chaat masala (or Jaljeera masala), and roasted cumin powder. Stir well to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Add Ice and Fizz

• Toss in a handful of ice cubes to chill the drink. Pour soda, 7 Up, or Sprite for a fizzy twist that enhances the drink’s refreshing quality.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Mix the shikanji thoroughly, pour into glasses, and garnish with extra mint leaves or a lemon wedge if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste.

This easy masala shikanji recipe is perfect for cooling off on hot days with its tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. It’s a must-try Indian summer drink!

Ingredients

• Use of black salt, helps in digestion.
• Lime / lemon acts as refreshing agent.
• Chaat masala, gives nice taste and adds to digestion. Chaat masala contains dry mango powder, ground ginger, cumin powder. All these together, gives brilliant taste and tanginess.
• Mint leaves, adds to the hint of freshness.
• Sugar balances with sourness of lemon.

This masala shikanji is

1. Ultimate Summer Refresher:

Masala shikanji is the perfect drink for hot and humid days. Its tangy lemon base, combined with refreshing mint and fizzy soda, cools you down instantly while keeping you hydrated.

2. A Nutritional Boost:

The use of lemon provides vitamin C, aiding immunity, while black salt and cumin powder support digestion. The drink is a flavorful way to nourish your body during summer heat.

3. Balances Hydration and Electrolytes:

The addition of black salt and chaat masala replenishes lost electrolytes, making it ideal for staying energized and preventing dehydration.

4. Easy to Make, Delicious to Sip:

With just a few simple ingredients like lemon, mint, and spices, this masala shikanji recipe is quick to prepare. It’s a fuss-free yet impressive drink for family gatherings or casual refreshment.

5. A Burst of Indian Flavors:

The unique combination of spices like cumin and Jaljeera masala delivers an authentic taste of India. It’s not just a drink; it’s a flavorful experience!

6. Perfect for Any Occasion:

Whether you’re hosting guests, relaxing on a warm afternoon, or recovering after a workout, masala shikanji fits every occasion. Its fizzy twist with soda or Sprite adds a celebratory vibe to any day.

Masala shikanji is more than a drink—it’s a refreshing blend of health, flavor, and tradition. This easy masala shikanji recipe will keep you cool and rejuvenated all summer long!

Serving suggestion

1. Chill for Maximum Refreshment:

Serve masala shikanji chilled for the ultimate cooling experience. Use ice cubes or refrigerate it before serving.

2. Garnish for a Visual Appeal:

Add a sprig of fresh mint leaves, a lemon wedge, or a slice of cucumber for an elegant touch. Sprinkle a pinch of roasted cumin powder or black salt on top for added aroma.

3. Pair with Snacks:

Masala shikanji pairs wonderfully with light Indian snacks like pakoras, samosas, or chaat, enhancing the overall experience.

4. Serve in Style:

Use tall, transparent glasses to highlight the vibrant colors of the drink. A decorative straw or a stirrer can add a modern touch.

5. Fizzy Twist for a Party:

For a more festive vibe, serve with soda or Sprite right before presenting to guests, creating a refreshing fizz.

6. Kids’ Friendly Version:

Skip the spices like chaat masala for a milder version that kids will love, focusing on lemon, sugar, and soda.

With its versatile flavour and cooling properties, masala shikanji is perfect for any occasion. It suits events ranging from casual family evenings to summer parties!

You may like to also try blue lagoon mocktail, an evergreen drink.

Below is the step by step recipe of masala shikanji

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