Thunda Khatta Mitta Nimbu Pani(Sweet and Sour Indian limeonade drink)

Nimbu pani is the Indian version of Lemonade. Instead of Lemons, we use limes. Hence should be named Limeonade. In America lemonade is very popular during summer time and is a great thirst quencher. Kids try to raise money during summer time selling lemonade outside grocery stores or near their homes.

Growing up in Mumbai,there used to be street hawkers making a delicious nimbu pani. They were great, ice cold and great to cool off your body heat with a "thunda khatta mitta nimbu pani". Thunda means "cold in Hindi". khatta means sour, mitta means sweet. There were mixed notions about the vendors selling limeonade. How hygienic the water they used for making the drink. People use to make fun saying that they are using gutter water. Now I think about it ad feel yucky! As we all know , these days people are more cautious about drinking any water, expecially when you travel international. People rely on mineral water. Tap water is questionable.

Making homemade khatta mitta limeonade drink is with the help of kala namak(special black salt available from the Himalayas only in India) and then adding sugar. These days people are more health conscious. Low fat, less sugar and more.............. I believe eveything you cosume should be in moderation. There should be a steady balance in life. All work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy.

This is a traditional way of making nimbu pani. But please feel free to add fizzy water or soda water to  make your drink more upscale. Make sure when you pick the limes, they are thin skin and not thick skin from outside. The thick skin are not juicy. If you find your lime to be thick skin, put in a microwave for 30 seconds so it can yield more juice.

Ingredients:

1 cup of  cold water
1 lime juice(juicy)
2 tblsp sugar
1/4 tsp Kala Namak(black salt)
 A pinch of chat Masala
Ice cubes optional
Lime wedges for garnish

Preparation: Mix all the above in a container. Make sure you really mix it well. If the water is not cold then you can leave in the fridge after preparing the drink. Kala namak is available online or any indian store. Serve it chilled in your favorite glass and garnish with lime slices or mint leaves.
Enjoy Nimbu Pani!