Spicy Nimbu Pani Cocktail Recipe

BySam Ecclestone

Classic recipes are my favorite to experiment with, and the Spicy Nimbu Pani Cocktail is my latest reinterpretation of a much-adored summer staple. The cocktail features a refreshing blend of 2 cups of chilled water and 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, which makes an irresistibly zesty base.

To counter the delicious—but perhaps a little too mouth-puckering for some—tartness of the lemon, I added 2 tablespoons of sugar. That’s not a lot of sugar when you think about it, and it really does work to bring the whole thing back into balance.

To add excitement, I mix in 1/2 teaspoon of roasted cumin powder and 1/2 teaspoon of black salt, which provides a creamy depth and delicious unexpected kick. What takes this drink to the next level for me, however, is the green chili that I chop up as finely as possible.

It adds just the right amount of heat to keep your taste buds on their toes. That spirited charm comes from a shot of vodka or gin, while fresh mint leaves keep it light and invigorating.

I like to serve it over ice cubes for the ultimate cooling experience. You can optionally garnish with lemon wedges or mint sprigs for a little visual appeal.

But besides just looking and tasting good, this cocktail also packs in a refreshing amount of vitamin C and some antioxidants, making it as revitalizing as it is delicious.

Ingredients photo for Spicy Nimbu Pani Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Spicy Nimbu Pani Cocktail Recipe

Lemon Juice, Fresh: A vitamin C powerhouse, it imparts a unique tartness and an invigorating flavor.

Cumin Powder, Roasted: Provides a warm, earthy flavor and digestive merits.

Black salt: Delivers a distinct umami flavor and boosts your digestive health.

Green chili contributes a zesty zing and escalates metabolism.

Sugar: Counteracts the tanginess and adds a hint of sweetness.

Mint leaves: Aid in refreshing and soothing digestion.

Gin or vodka: Forms a smooth base for the drink, blending perfectly with the other ingredients and allowing their flavors to shine.

Ingredient Quantities

  • 2 cups of chilled water

  • 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons of sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoon of roasted cumin powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon of black salt

  • 1 green chili, finely chopped

  • A few fresh mint leaves

  • 1 shot (1.5 oz) of vodka or gin

  • Ice cubes

  • Optional: Lemon slices or wedges for garnish

  • Optional: Mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, mix the cold water with the freshly squeezed lemon juice.

2. Add the sugar and stir until completely dissolved.

3. Blend in the roasted cumin powder and black salt.

4. Add the finely minced green chili to the mixture for a spicy kick.

5. Tear the mint leaves a bit to let their flavor come out, then add them to the pitcher.

6. Add the shot of vodka or gin and stir well to combine all the flavors together.

7. Ice cubes should be filled into serving glasses.

8. Spicy nimbu pani mixture over the ice in each glass, pour.

9. Lemon slices or wedges, mint sprigs: Optional garnishes.

10. Enjoy your Spicy Nimbu Pani Cocktail immediately while it is cold.

Equipment Needed

1. Large pitcher
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Citrus juicer
5. Stirring spoon
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Glasses for serving
9. Optional: Cocktail shaker (if preferred for mixing)
10. Optional: Strainer (if needed for removing mint leaves before serving)

FAQ

  • Q: Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?A: Yes, just leave out the vodka or gin, and you have a very refreshing non-alcoholic spicy Nimbu Pani.

  • Q: How can I adjust the spiciness of the cocktail?A: Adjust the finely chopped green chili to change the spice level to suit your taste.

  • Q: What is the purpose of black salt in this recipe?The distinctive tangy flavor and enhancement of overall taste that black salt provides make it the optimal choice for crafting the perfect cocktail.

  • Q: Is there a substitute for roasted cumin powder?If you don’t have roasted cumin powder, you can use ground cumin; just remember to toast it in a pan to bring out the flavor.

  • Q: Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?A: The optimal way to make this cocktail is to prepare it fresh; however, you can mix all the components, save for ice and garnish, in advance. Add the ice and garnish just prior to serving.

  • Q: What type of alcohol pairs well with this cocktail?The wonderful pairing of both vodka and gin, along with the potential mixing of rum or tequila to personal taste, creates an outstanding combination of flavors.

  • Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?A: For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice. However, if fresh lemon juice is not available, bottled lemon juice can be used in its place.

Substitutions and Variations

Lime juice can be used in place of fresh lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.
Honey or agave nectar can be used instead of sugar; they are natural sweeteners.
Substituting roasted cumin powder with chaat masala would yield a different spice profile.
If black salt is unavailable, regular table salt or Himalayan pink salt can be used as substitutes.
A pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes can take the place of fresh green chili to add zing.