How to Make Shikanji Masala?

Who does not love a shikanji drink this hot summer? None. Every one of us needs a refreshing and easy-to-make summer drink like shikanji. As the flavor of this drink is citric, it is popularly called ‘the Indian Lemonade’ in English or ‘Nimbu Pani’ in Hindi. 

So, in this blog post, let’s explore what this shikanji masala is made of, how to make this masala and the drink, the benefits of drinking this, and the easiest method to make this drink.

Shikanji Masala Ingredients

1. 1–2 tbsp of white or black salt
2. 1–2 tbsp of dry mango powder
3. 2–4 tbsp of freshly squeezed lemon
4. 1–2 tbsp of mint leaves powder 
5. A handful of fresh mint leaves
6. 1–2 tbsp of black pepper
7. 2–3 tbsp of roasted cumin powder
8. 1–2 tbsp of coriander powder
9. ¼ tbsp of dry ginger powder
10. ¼ tbsp of asafoetida
11. 1–2 tbsp of sugar or honey

While most ingredients are common in this shikanji masala powder recipe, some people alter it to get different tastes, like tangy and sweet. Accordingly, the proportions of one or two ingredients may vary, or one or more ingredients may be additional. Otherwise, the key ingredients of this shikanji masala are the same. 

For a chaat flavor, add 1–2 tbsp of chaat masala powder or add 1–2 cloves, mace, and cinnamon sticks. For a strong citric flavor, add a pinch of grated lemon peels. 

How to Make Shikanji Masala at Home?

Step 1: Dry roast the two important spices in this masala—the cumin seeds and black peppercorns. Be accurate with the tbsp you add. 

Step 2: Allow the roasted spices to cool down 

Step 3: Grind the cooled spices to make a fine powder.

Step 4: To this ground powder, add white or black salt, dry ginger powder, amchur or dry mango powder, and asafoetida hing. 

This blend of spices and ingredients makes the shikanji masala. 

Note: This masala shikanji recipe can vary slightly with the addition of chaat masala or other flavorful ingredients. Just ensure when and how much to add.  

Steps to Make the Drink

Step 1: Squeeze 1–2 fresh lemons and have the juice ready.

Step 2: Keep the cold water ready. Ice cubes are optional. 

Step 3: Take a glass, first add the shikanji masala.

Step 4: Now, add the required amount of sugar or honey, dried mint powder, and lemon juice.

Step 5: Add cold water and evenly stir the mixture for about 30–60 seconds. 

Step 6: Add fresh mint leaves and ice cubes as required. 

The Most Effortless Method—instant Shikanji Powder

The easiest way to make the shikanji summer drink is to order the instant masala powder online and simply add the powder to cold water. This saves you time and effort. Because not everyone can make this powder at home with the right proportions and procedures. Moreover, you need not worry about the quality of the powder sold online. You can get the best shikanji masala powder from leading brands like Nita Mehta, with handpicked spices, accurate proportions, and carefully roasted and ground. 

What are the Benefits of Shikanji Masala?

1. The lemon juice instantly hydrates the body as it has electrolytes and vitamin C.
2. The cumin, ginger, and asafoetida in the powder aid in digestion. 
3. The dry mango powder or chaat ingredients give a unique aroma and flavor.
4. Salt and pepper give the required taste to the drink.

This makes the drink good for health and apt for summer.