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A chilled glass of Indian nimbu pani with lemon and mint.

Indian Nimbu Pani (Shikanji)

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A cooling Indian lemon-lime drink seasoned with black salt, cumin, sugar, and mint.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 glasses
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 75
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
 
 

Drink
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup hot water for dissolving sugar
  • 3 cups cold water
  • 1/2 tsp black salt
  • 1/2 tsp roasted ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup ice cubes
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves lightly bruised

Equipment

  • Citrus juicer
  • Pitcher
  • Small whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Mix:
  1. Whisk sugar into hot water until fully dissolved. Cool for 5 minutes.
  2. Combine the syrup, lemon juice, lime juice, cold water, black salt, cumin, and pepper in a pitcher. Stir well.
Serve:
  1. Taste and adjust with a little more citrus, sugar, or salt. Add mint and ice.
  2. Pour into four glasses and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 75kcalCarbohydrates: 20gSodium: 295mgSugar: 18g

Notes

  • Black salt gives shikanji its distinctive savory aroma; regular salt tastes cleaner but can substitute.
  • For a sparkling version, replace half the cold water with chilled plain soda water just before serving.