🇮🇳 Indian Cuisine · Drinks

Nimbu Pani

Prep

5 mins

Cook

0 mins

Serves

2

Difficulty

Easy

Indian fresh lemonade of squeezed lime, sugar or salt, cumin, and cold water—essential on a hot day.

Ingredients

  • 500g basmati rice
  • 2 cups flattened rice (poha)
  • 2 tbsp crushed green cardamom pods
  • 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/4 cup ghee
  • 200g yellow onions
  • a handful of fresh curry leaves, chopped
  • a drizzle of roasted cashews
  • 1 cup coconut milk

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine the roti and water in a saucepan, blender, or pitcher, stirring well.

  2. 2

    Add the dried fenugreek leaves and tamarind paste, stirring gently so their flavor infuses the mixture.

  3. 3

    Heat gently over low heat (or blend, or steep, depending on the drink) until well combined and fragrant, about 0 mins.

  4. 4

    Strain through a fine sieve to remove any solids, if needed.

  5. 5

    Sweeten to taste with ghee, adjusting gradually until the balance feels right.

  6. 6

    Chill in the refrigerator, or pour straight over ice, depending on whether it is served cold or hot.

  7. 7

    Garnish with cilantro just before serving.

Tips

Make a big batch and keep it chilled in the fridge — the flavor often deepens after a few hours.

Serve in a chilled glass for the most refreshing result on a hot day.

Adjust the sweetness gradually, tasting as you go — you can always add more ghee, but you cannot take it away.