How to Make Shikanji at Home (Includes Soda Shikanji Recipe)
Nothing beats the refreshing taste of shikanji, especially on a hot summer day! This classic Indian drink, made with lemon juice, sugar, and spices, is a go-to beverage for hydration and energy. While traditional shikanji is made with water, the fizzy twist of soda shikanji adds a unique flavor and makes it even more fun to drink.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make both traditional shikanji and soda shikanji at home. Whether you love the simplicity of the classic version or the bubbly refreshment of soda, we’ve got you covered!
What is Shikanji?
Shikanji is a traditional North Indian lemonade, enhanced with spices like black salt, roasted cumin powder, and mint. It’s known for its tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor, making it a perfect thirst-quencher.
Soda shikanji, on the other hand, is a fizzy variation of the original, made by replacing regular water with soda or sparkling water. The carbonation adds an extra zing that’s hard to resist.
How to Make Shikanji at Home (Traditional Recipe)
Ingredients:
- 2 lemons (medium-sized)
- 2–3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black salt
- 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
- 2 cups chilled water
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Lemon Base: Squeeze the juice of 2 lemons into a mixing bowl. Remove any seeds.
- Mix the Sweetener: Add 2–3 tablespoons of sugar to the lemon juice and mix well until dissolved.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in black salt and roasted cumin powder. Stir to combine.
- Dilute with Water: Pour in 2 cups of chilled water and mix everything thoroughly.
- Serve: Add ice cubes to a glass, pour the shikanji over the ice, and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Your traditional shikanji is ready to enjoy!
How to Make Soda Shikanji at Home (Fizzy Variation)
Ingredients:
- Same ingredients as the traditional recipe
- 1 cup club soda or sparkling water
Instructions:
- Follow steps 1–3 from the traditional recipe.
- Instead of adding chilled water, pour 1 cup of club soda or sparkling water into the lemon mixture. Mix gently to retain the fizz.
- Serve immediately with ice cubes and mint garnish for the best experience.
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of chaat masala for an extra tangy flavor!
Looking for the perfect soda for your homemade soda shikanji?
Try Schweppes Soda Water (Pack of 12) for the best fizz and refreshment. With a 5-star rating, this product is a top choice for creating that perfect bubbly texture in your drink!
Traditional vs. Soda Shikanji: Which One to Choose?
- Traditional Shikanji: Best for those who prefer a light, soothing drink with no carbonation. It’s also kid-friendly and great for all-day hydration.
- Soda Shikanji: Perfect for parties, get-togethers, or when you’re craving something fizzy and exciting.
Tips for Perfect Shikanji:
- Adjust Sweetness and Spices: Feel free to tweak the sugar and spices to suit your taste.
- Serve Immediately: For soda shikanji, serve as soon as it’s made to enjoy the fizz.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add crushed ginger, basil seeds, or a dash of orange juice for unique variations.
Why Should You Try Making Shikanji at Home?
Shikanji is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with health benefits. It helps in digestion, keeps you hydrated, and provides a good dose of vitamin C from the lemons. By preparing it at home, you can ensure freshness and customize the flavor to your liking.
Also Read: Best Summer Drink And Coolers
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use soda for traditional shikanji?
Yes! Soda shikanji is a popular variation that gives a fizzy twist to the original recipe. Simply replace water with soda or sparkling water.
2. Can I make shikanji in advance?
You can prepare the lemon base (lemon juice, sugar, and spices) ahead of time and refrigerate it. Add water or soda just before serving.
3. Which soda is best for soda shikanji?
Plain club soda or sparkling water works best. Avoid sweetened sodas as they can overpower the flavors.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make shikanji at home in both traditional and fizzy versions, it’s time to give it a try! Whether you’re cooling off after a long day or hosting a summer party, this refreshing drink will surely be a hit.
Looking for the perfect soda for your homemade soda shikanji? Try Schweppes Soda Water (Pack of 12) for the best fizz and refreshment. With a 5-star rating, this product is a top choice for creating that perfect bubbly texture in your drink!
So, why wait? Will you be trying the classic shikanji or the bubbly soda shikanji first?
