Nimbu Pani
A cooling Indian lemonade made with fresh lemon juice, water, a little sugar, and a light pinch of salt. It is bright, simple, and especially refreshing on hot days when you want something quick and homemade.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~3 min
Juice the lemons.
Cut the lemons and squeeze out the juice. Strain out the seeds and keep the juice ready.
- mix · ~3 min
Mix the drink.
1.Add the lemon juice, sugar, salt, black salt, and cumin powder to a large jug.2.Pour in the chilled water and stir until the sugar fully dissolves.3.Add the chopped mint and mix well. - assemble · ~1 min
Add ice cubes and chill the nimbu pani.
Add ice cubes to the jug or directly into serving glasses. Stir once more before pouring.
- serve
Serve the nimbu pani cold.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Roll the lemons on the counter before juicing to release more juice with less effort.
- 2Strain the lemon juice before mixing so seeds and excess pulp do not make the drink bitter.
- 3Stir the sugar with a little lemon juice first if needed; it dissolves faster than in very cold water.
- 4Add the chopped mint just before serving for the freshest aroma and brightest green color.
- 5Taste after adding black salt and cumin, then adjust carefully since both can quickly dominate the drink.
- 6If making ahead, chill the base without ice and add ice only while serving to avoid dilution.
- 7Serve within a few hours for the cleanest citrus flavor, as lemon can turn slightly dull over time.
Adapt it for your goals.
Masala
Increase roasted cumin and black salt slightly for a more savory, chatpata version that pairs well with Indian snacks.
low sugarLow-sugar
Reduce the sugar and keep the salt, black salt, and mint for a lighter, more tart drink.
mintyMinty
Lightly crush the mint before adding it to the jug for a stronger herbal aroma and cooler finish.
sparklingSparkling
Replace some chilled water with plain soda just before serving for a fizzy nimbu pani.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Hydrating Summer Drink
Made mostly with water and lemon juice, this is a simple homemade drink that helps you cool down in hot weather.
Vitamin C From Lemon
Fresh lemon juice contributes vitamin C and bright citrus flavor without needing packaged drink mixes.
Digestive Spice Support
Roasted cumin and black salt are commonly used in Indian drinks for their savory taste and digestive appeal.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Mix the lemon juice, sugar, salts, cumin, and water ahead, then chill it. Add mint and ice closer to serving for the freshest taste.
