It’s Hot Out! Make This Cooling Brazilian Lemonade

Brazilian lemonade, also known as “limonada suíça,” is a refreshing and creamy citrus drink that is popular in Brazil. Despite its name, it’s actually made with limes rather than lemons. The unique twist to this recipe is the use of the whole lime, including the peel, which gives the drink a slightly bitter and aromatic flavor. Here’s a simple recipe to make Brazilian lemonade:

Ingredients:

4 to 5 limes (preferably Persian limes) 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk 3 cups cold water 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste) Ice cubes Lime slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Wash the limes thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
2. Cut the ends off the limes and then cut them into small chunks. Remove any seeds that you can easily see.
3. Place the lime chunks, including the peel, into a blender.
4. Add the sweetened condensed milk to the blender.
5. Pour in the cold water.
6. Start with a smaller amount of sugar (about 2 tablespoons) and add more to taste if needed. Remember that the sweetness of the condensed milk will also contribute to the overall sweetness of the drink.
7. Blend the mixture on high speed until everything is well combined and the lime chunks are finely blended.
8. Taste the mixture and adjust the sugar if necessary. You can also add more cold water if you prefer a lighter consistency.
9. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any larger pieces of lime peel or pulp. You may need to use a spoon to press the mixture through the strainer.
10. Chill the strained Brazilian lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
11. To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled lemonade over the ice.
12. Optionally, garnish each glass with a slice of lime.
13. Stir the lemonade before drinking, as it might separate slightly as it sits.
14. Enjoy your refreshing and creamy Brazilian lemonade!

Note: Traditional Brazilian lemonade often includes the whole lime, but if you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the limes before blending. Additionally, the amount of sugar can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. Some variations also include adding a small amount of grated ginger for extra flavor. —Vita Daily