Brazilian Lemonade

This Brazilian Lemonade lives up to the hype! And, yes, it’s made with limes not lemons BUT we're not lying to you. The reason why Brazilian Lemonade is called a lemonade and not a limeade is due to the translation. In Portuguese limão is the term for lime, so everyone calls it limonada. In Bulgaria, we also call any type of citrus drink limonada which is generally a broad term for any lime or lemon juice. While the name may confuse, what is totally clear is how utterly this is. It’s creamy, citrusy, and so refreshing. Traditionally, Brazilian lemonade uses whole limes — pith, peel, and all — but we decided to remove the lime peels prior to blending, as the limes in Canada have thick skin and can be extremely bitter.

What stands out

It takes just 3 simple ingredients to make this sensational Brazilian Lemonade, which will have you doing the samba after one sip. This drink is zesty and sweet, making it the thirst-quencher for hot days. The balance of tart limes with the rich sweetened condensed milk creates a frothy treat that’s incredibly refreshing and flavorful. Plus, it’s versatile: you can enjoy it as is, add a splash of your favorite liquor to make it into a cocktail, or add some bubbly water for some fizz.

How to Prepare

Use a zester to zest 2 limes and reserve.

Now, using a paring knife remove the peels and pith (the white coating between the lime flesh and peel) from 4 limes.

Add the peeled limes to a blender with cold water and then blend for 20 to 30 seconds.

Place a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl and pour the blended liquid through the strainer.

Pour the strained liquid back into the blender with ice, the reserved lime zest, and the sweetened condensed milk. Blend again until frothy.

Enjoy your Brazilian Lemonade with extra ice and if you’re in the mood, you can add a splash of your favorite alcohol too.

Kitchen tip

You don’t have to remove the lime peels but we prefer to, as they can be bitter. If you want to add the limes in whole, do NOT blend for more than 20 seconds before straining.

Swaps

1. If you are not a fan of (or cannot tolerate) sweetened condensed milk, we would definitely try this drink with a can of coconut milk and some sweetener i nstead. Let us know how it turns out!
2. Feel free to add a splash of any alcohol of choice to turn this Brazilian Lemonade into a cocktail.
3. You can use lemons instead of limes. You may have to adjust the sweetness.
4. Add a handful of fresh mint leaves or a splash of sparkling water for some fizz.

Serve it with

• A variety of summer dips such as our Healthy Green Goddess DipWhipped Feta Dip with Grapes or Grilled Eggplant Dip.
• Add a splash of non-alcoholic or alcoholic rum, vodka, or tequila to this Brazilian Lemonade.

Questions

can we make this with lemons instead of limes?

Yes, you can substitute limes with lemons or a mix of both for a slightly different flavor profile. Keep in mind that other citrus fruits may alter the taste and sweetness level.

How can we adjust the sweetness?

If you find the drink too sweet, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or add more cold water.

What can we do with the leftover lime pulp?

The leftover lime pulp can be used in smoothies or as a marinade for grilled chicken or pineapple. Alternatively, you can compost it.

can we make this without the sweetened condensed milk?

If you are not a fan of (or cannot tolerate) sweetened condensed milk, you can certainly try making this drink with a can of coconut milk (or cream) and some sweetener.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

• 4 limes
• 4 cups cold filtered water
• ice
• 1 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk, 300 ml

Equipment

• Blender
• Zester
• Paring Knife
• Cutting Board
• Liquid Measuring Cup
• Mixing Bowls
• Fine Mesh Sieve

Method

1. Zest 2 of the limes and reserve. Now, take all 4 limes and remove the peels and pith (the white coating between the lime flesh and peel).
2. Add the peeled limes to a blender with the cold water. Blend for 20 to 30 seconds. Place a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl and pour the blended liquid through the strainer. You should be left with a little bit of pulp which you can use for other recipes or compost.
3. Pour the strained liquid back into the blender with ice, the reserved lime zest and the sweetened condensed milk. Blend until frothy.
4. Enjoy with extra ice and if you're in the mood, you can absolutely add a splash of your favorite alcohol too.