How to Make Shikanji at Home: A Refreshing Summer Drink Recipe Simplified
Shikanji, a delightful cooling lemon drink popular in India, is a perfect way to refresh yourself during the scorching summer months. This article will guide you through the easy steps to make shikanji at home, alongside Nimbu Paani and other refreshing variants like Minty Nimbu Paani, Masala Nimbu Soda, and Coconut Shikanji. Follow the instructions below to enjoy these refreshing drinks anytime and anywhere.
Ingredients and Instructions for Making Shikanji at Home
Ingredients: Rice Water A pot with a tight-fitting lid A bowl Instructions: Rinse the rice several times in cold water until the water runs clear. Add rice to the pot and add water (the water should be about 1 1/2 times the depth of the rice). Put the lid on the pot and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes. Transfer the rice to a large bowl and mix with a wooden spoon until it has cooled down and become sticky. Serve the shikanji with your desired toppings and enjoy!Shikanji with Muddled Mint Leaves
This version of shikanji combines the traditional flavor with a minty twist. This recipe is a bit more complex but equally refreshing.
Ingredients: 2 Lemons 1 cup Mint leaves 2-3 tsp Sugar 2 cups chilled water 1 tsp Coriander powder 1/2 tsp roasted Cumin powder 1/2 tsp Chaat masala 1/4 tsp Black Salt 1/4 tsp Salt Ice cubes Instructions: Wash 1 cup mint leaves and muddle them slightly to release juice and flavor. Use a mortar and pestle or the edge of a rolling pin for this step. Add 2-3 tsp sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black salt, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder, 1/2 tsp chaat masala, and the muddled mint leaves to a pitcher. Squeeze 2 large lemons into the pitcher and mix all the ingredients with a spoon until the sugar dissolves. Add 2 cups of cold water. Add 2 lemon or lime slices for extra zest. Your shikanji is ready to serve!Easy Nimbu Paani (Shikanji) Recipe
Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons Sugar 1/2 Teaspoon Black Salt 1/2 Cup Water Juice of 1/2 Lemon Ice Cubes (Optional) Instructions: In a glass, add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of black salt. Add 1/2 cup of water and mix well. Add the juice of 1/2 a lemon and fill the glass with cold water. You can add an ice cube if preferred.3 Variations of Nimbu Paani: Minty, Masala, and Coconut Shikanji
For lovers of unique and spicy flavors, try these three different variations of Nimbu Paani. Each version offers a distinct taste and is perfect for a variety of occasions.
Minty Nimbu Paani
Ingredients: 1/4 cups mint leaves 2 tbsp sugar 5 tbsp lemon juice Instructions: Take mint leaves in a bowl and add sugar, crushing them well to make a paste. Take water in a glass and add the paste and lemon juice, stirring well. Garnish with lemon roundels if desired.Masala Nimbu Soda
Ingredients: 1 tsp Coriander powder 1/2 tsp Black pepper 1 tsp Chaat masala 1 tsp Cumin powder 1/2 tsp Black salt 1 tbsp Powdered sugar 6 tbsp Lemon juice 1 cup Soda water Ice cubes Instructions: Put coriander powder, black pepper, chaat masala, cumin powder, black salt, powdered sugar, and lemon juice in a glass. Add soda water and stir well until all the ingredients are blended. Serve chilled with ice cubes.Coconut Shikanji
Ingredients: 1 cup Coconut water 4 tsp Powdered sugar 2 tsp Ginger juice 5 tbsp Lemon juice Instructions: Take a glass full of coconut water and add powdered sugar, stirring well. Add ginger juice and lemon juice, stirring again. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve chilled in a coconut.Benefits of Nimbu Paani (Shikanji):
Nimbu Paani is not only refreshing but also beneficial for your health. The lemon provides a rich source of Vitamin C, which helps in skin glow. When combined with spices and herbs like cumin, coriander, black salt, and cumin, it acts as a powerful coolant for the body. Lemon juice also stimulates liver bile production, aiding in toxin expulsion from the body. This magical concoction will keep your skin hydrated and lively while providing instant energy and coolness.
The Best Way to Enjoy Nimbu Paani (Shikanji):
You can enjoy Nimbu Paani (Shikanji) at any time, whether in the morning for a cleansing drink or during the day to re-energize in the heat. With its versatile nature, this refreshing drink is a must-have for summer months.