Growing up in Shillong meant no summer vacation and no brutal hot days. Hence, the classic Nimbu Pani (Indian Lemonade) was never that common. However, Mom used to make us a glass after school, more for a medicinal purpose than thirst quencher. It was only during our yearly visits to Kolkata that got me to hooked to this ever so refreshing summer drink. Gulping a couple of glasses from the roadside stall was a mandate every time we stepped out. No ice cream or fresh fruit juice could give that cool feeling.
This humble drink needs minimum effort and gives maximum pleasure. It also has a lot of health benefits in terms of keeping your tummy rolling smoothly, loosing the flab, curing hangovers and replenishing your body salts after you sweat a bucket everyday.
I mostly prefer plain Nimbu Pani with a little salt and sugar swirled in it. But when I am in the mood for that extra smack, I go for Masala Nimbu Soda (Spiced Sparkly Lemonade). Freshly ground roasted cumin with the pungent aroma, chaat masala with the tanginess and lots of fresh mint make the best combination of flavors.
With the temperature in Bangalore shooting high and the muggy feeling in the air, Masala Nimbu Soda helps me get going though the day. So, I squeeze as much lemon as possible, stay hydrated and hope Monsoon would arrive soon!
Masala Nimbu Soda (Spiced Lemonade Fizz)
Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- lemon slices for garnish
- 4 cups club soda/sparkling water
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons chaat masala
- 1 teaspoon roasted cumin
Instructions
- Take half of the fresh mint leaves and muddle it along with roasted cumin.
- Mix it with fresh lemon juice, sugar, salt and chaat masala.
- Finally, pour sparkling water, garnish with a few mint leaves and lemon slices.
- Serve immediately!
Cygnet Kitchen
This looks so refreshing, Kankana! Now all we need here in the UK is some sun!
Shumaila
I love banta or nimbu soda from the roadside thelas. And Of course i can have homemade nimbu paani any time of the day. The pictures are so refreshing. Love everything about this post!
Tes
I really want something like this right now. So refreshing!
Janani Rakesh Kumar
Looks refreshing and awesome clicks !:-)
Appu
Amazing pictures. Couldn't take my eyes off them.
Kimberly/TheLittlePl
It looks super refreshing and the spices are new to me in a lemonade. Thanks for sharing
Laura | Tutti Dolci
What a refreshing drink for hot summer days!
Bina
Lovely post and I cannot wait for summer to try this!! I love the sweet and salty nimbu paani and this really takes it to a new level 🙂
angiesrecipes
Totally refreshing! As always, your photos are amazing!