Looking for a refreshing beverage to cool you down on a hot day? This Brazilian lemonade recipe is the perfect solution! With its unique blend of fresh limes and sweetened condensed milk, this drink offers a delightful twist on traditional lemonade. It’s creamy, tangy, and sure to impress your friends and family. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and treat yourself to a taste of Brazil!
Ingredients
– 4 medium limes
– 1 cup of water
– 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup): Approximately 150 calories, 2g protein, 3g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 25g sugar. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Wash the limes thoroughly and cut them into quarters.
2. Place the lime quarters in a blender.
3. Add the water and sugar to the blender.
4. Blend on high for about 30 seconds until the limes are crushed.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove pulp and seeds.
6. Add the sweetened condensed milk to the strained liquid.
7. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined.
8. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary by adding more sugar.
9. Fill glasses with ice cubes.
10. Pour the Brazilian lemonade over the ice and garnish with mint leaves.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Additionally, use agave syrup instead of sugar for a healthier sweetener.
Serving and Pairings
This Brazilian lemonade pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, spicy dishes, or can be enjoyed as a standalone refreshing drink on a hot day.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover Brazilian lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best served cold, so simply give it a good stir before serving. Freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much sugar can make the drink overly sweet.
- Not straining the mixture may leave an unpleasant pulp texture.
- Using limes that are not fresh can lead to a dull flavor.
- Over-blending can create a bitter taste from the lime peels.
- Not adjusting sweetness to taste may result in an unbalanced flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Chill your glasses for an extra refreshing experience.
- Experiment with adding fruits like strawberries for a twist.
- Use sparkling water instead of regular water for a fizzy version.
- Make a larger batch for parties and serve in a punch bowl.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh limes?
While bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, fresh limes offer a much brighter flavor and aroma that’s essential for this recipe.
Is Brazilian lemonade vegan?
Traditional Brazilian lemonade is not vegan due to the sweetened condensed milk. However, you can easily substitute it with coconut milk to make it vegan-friendly.
How long does Brazilian lemonade last?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best when consumed fresh, as the flavors can diminish over time.
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to add the ice just before serving to maintain its freshness.
What can I serve with Brazilian lemonade?
This drink pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or spicy dishes. It’s also great as a refreshing beverage on its own.
Conclusion
This Brazilian lemonade recipe is a delightful and unique twist on a classic favorite. Its creamy texture combined with the tartness of limes makes it a perfect refreshing drink for hot days or festive occasions. Enjoy this vibrant beverage and impress your guests with its exotic flavors!
Brazilian Lemonade Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium limes
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the limes thoroughly and cut them into quarters.
- Place the lime quarters in a blender.
- Add the water and sugar to the blender.
- Blend on high for about 30 seconds until the limes are crushed.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk to the strained liquid.
- Stir well until the mixture is fully combined.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
- Fill glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the Brazilian lemonade over the ice and garnish with mint leaves.