A Taste of South America: Brazilian Lemonade Recipe

Are you dreaming of faraway places today? Maybe of a beach and warm, tropical weather? This traditional Brazilian drink’s a whole lot cheaper than a plane ticket (staycation, anyone?), and it’ll give you a taste of a distant locale, sip after sip. 

Go gather your lemons—psych. This recipe’s name may say “lemonade,” but it actually uses limes. Citrusy lime, combined with mild, creamy coconut milk and a hint of tangy ginger make for an interesting, but ultimately delicious combination of flavors.

This smooth light beverage is perfect for a summer party. It doesn’t keep long, but it’s so good that it probably won’t stay around for long anyway. Saúde.

Ingredients:

3-4 limes

2-3 cups coconut milk

6 cups water

1-2 tablespoons ginger

Ice

Optional: 1/3 cup sugar

Optional: Rum for the adults

Method:

1. This recipe’s super easy to make. No juicer required. Cut off the ends of the limes and slice them into eighths. Place the lime wedges in a blender with about ½ cup water per two limes. (You may have to do this in batches depending on the size of your blender.) Pulse the blender until the mixture looks smooth.

2. Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the mixture into the pitcher you plan to use to serve the drink. Press down on the pulp with a spoon to release all of the juicy goodness. Discard the pulp.

3. Add the rest of the (cold!) water and the coconut milk to the pitcher. Grate 1-2 tablespoons ginger over the top of the pitcher. Stir it all together.

4. Serve over ice and garnish with a lime slice.

Optional: For a grown up twist, add your favorite rum for a piña colada-style drink.

image: Kirsten Hudson

Follow Kirsten on Twitter @kirsten_hudson

Tags: