Nimbu Shikanji

Nimbu Shikanji or Shikanjvi is a refreshing Indian drink made using a spice masala and soda. Here is how to  make it at home.

I have always been a fan of Lemon based drinks, especially in Summers.

I feel that Lemon drinks instantly gives you that energy and also a relief from the scorching heat. And therefore, the intake of lemon becomes more when the summer season comes in. 

Today, I will share a recipe with you, that I have been drinking since my childhood.

Its Shikanji! Well, most of us know what it is, but those who are not aware with this magical drink, it is a lemon infused drink with some spices, topped with soda or water. 

I remember a “Shikanji Wala” used to come sell this drink in my hometown on a cart, when I was a kid.

After our evening playtime, we used to run towards the cart to drink this refreshing drink. 

So, whenever I miss that delicious drink, I make it at home and it always takes me back to the good old days.

Even my son enjoys it as much as I do and it is his favourite evening drink now-a-days. 

You can even serve it to your guests or serve as a welcome drink for your get togethers and house parties. 

If you like to sip on these Summer drinks, here are some more best options for you – Jeera Soda, Kulukki, Watermelon Mojito, Virgin Mojito, Apple Iced Tea, Aam Panna, Kiwi Cooler, Cucumber Mint Cooler, Jaljeera and Watermelon Juice.

About this recipe

Shikanji, which can also be called as an Indian Lemonade is a popular Indian vegan drink that is very popular in the Northern part of India and is made in most of the households during summer.

The key ingredient of this drink is lemon. Lemon juice is mixed with a masala, sugar, mint leaves and is then topped with water or soda. 

You will also find many street side carts selling this refreshing Shikanjvi, in some of the North Indian states.

As we all know keeping yourself hydrated is necessary is very important in this heat, this is a great way to include some more liquid in your diet. 

There are also many Shikanji Masalas available in the market, such as Jain Shikanji Masala, that can be used to make drink too.

But I like to make the masala at home, and believe me it tastes much better and fresh. 

Well, if you have heard of Indori Shahi Shikanji, don’t get confused because the ingredients used in this Indori version of Shikanji are entirely different.

It uses milk, saffron, cardamom powder, sugar, salt, yogurt and dry fruits. I will surely share the recipe of this Indori version too very soon. 

Ingredients

Lemon: This is the star ingredients. Lemon adds the perfect amount of tanginess in this drik, making it refreshing and delicious. 

Spices: The lemon juice is mixed with a masala before adding water or soda. This masala is made by roasting and grinding some everyday whole spices such as coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns. This mixture is then mixed with chaat masala, black salt and regular salt.

Sugar: Powdered Sugar is added to make it sweet. You can also add in powdered jaggery or honey instead of sugar, if you are looking for a healthy alternative. 

Mint Leaves: This is completely optional, but I love the taste mint leaves adds to this Shikanji, making it more refreshing. 

Water or Soda: You can either top your Shikanji mixture with soda or water. If you like that fizz in your drinks, top it with chilled soda. Also add in some ice cubes, because this drink tastes the best when served chilled.

You can also add in coca cola, sprite or ginger juice instead of water or soda, to make a different variation of the same drink.

You can also add in Chia Seeds in this drink, it is a great ingredients to include in your drinks during summer.

Health Benefits

Along with being so tasty and refreshing, Nimbu Shikanji also has health benefits that will surely benefit your body. Let’s see what are they:

• As Lemon is the main ingredients, this drink is also rich in Vitamin C which helps in the formation of collagen, absorption of iron, the immune system and wound healing. Not to forget, it is very good for your skin and hair too.
• It is great for digestion. It regulates the bowel movements and relieves constipation.
• It is also a good option for weight loss, and therefore if you are on the journey of losing weight, include this drink in your daily diet.
• Gives you an instant relief from the heat and works as a natural coolant.
• Keeps you hydrated.

What is the difference between Shikanji and Nimbu Pani?

Both the drinks are made with Lemon, but they are slightly different.

Whereas in the Shikanji, we use some whole spices such as coriander seeds and black peppercorns along with sugar and salt, Nimboo Pani uses only 5 ingredients Lemon, Water, Sugar, Salt and Cumin Powder. 

Also mostly Shikanji uses Soda and sometimes water, Nimboo Pani is made only with water. 

Step By Step Recipe

Roast cumin seeds, black peppercorns and coriander seeds until very slightly browned.

Add them in a grinder along with chaat masala, black salt and regular salt and grind to make a fine powder.

Add lemon juice in 2 glasses. Add powdered sugar and mix until sugar dissolves.

Add 1/2 tsp shikanji masala and mint leaves in the glasses.

Add Ice cubes.

Top the glasses with chilled water or soda.