Name: Egyptian Mint Lemonade (Limonana) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Egyptian
Ingredients: 5-6 medium limes, sliced; 3 cups whole milk; 1 cup cold water; 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 fresh mint leaves; Ice cubes for serving

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Introduction

Egyptian Mint Lemonade, also known as Limonana, is a refreshing and vibrant drink perfect for hot days. Combining the tangy brightness of fresh limes with the cool aroma of mint, it offers a unique twist on traditional lemonade.

A glass filled with a smooth, creamy white drink topped with a bright green mint sprig resting on the surface. Behind the glass, two lime wedges, one upright and one sideways, sit on a white marbled board with a gold stripe. A few mint leaves and small white flowers are scattered around the board on the same white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

5-6 medium limes (sliced)
3 cups whole milk
1 cup cold water
1 cup granulated sugar
6 fresh mint leaves
Ice cubes for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a high-powered blender, combine the sliced limes, whole milk, cold water, granulated sugar, and fresh mint leaves.
Step 2: Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined, being careful not to overblend to avoid bitterness.
Step 3: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any pulp or solids.
Step 4: Serve the strained lemonade in glasses filled with ice cubes and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk.
Add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
Adjust sugar amount to taste depending on lime tartness.
Use fresh mint from your garden for a more intense flavor.

Storage

Store leftover lemonade in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Shake gently before serving. This drink is best enjoyed fresh, so avoid storing it for long periods to maintain its bright taste.

How to Serve

A tall clear glass filled nearly to the top with a smooth, creamy pale yellow drink is the center of the image. The drink has a frothy texture with tiny bubbles on the surface, and a pink stick with fresh green mint leaves rests on top as a garnish. Behind it to the left is a slightly taller clear glass with a light yellow liquid, and to the right a small clear bowl holds more of the same pale yellow drink with a green mint leaf on top. In front of the glass are three clear ice cubes, a cut lime wedge showing its light green inside, fresh mint leaves, and a single small purple flower. The setup is on a light colored stone surface with a white marbled texture, and the background is a soft beige wall. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh limes?

Fresh limes are recommended for the best flavor and aroma, but in a pinch, bottled lime juice can be used. Adjust the quantity to taste, as bottled juice may be more concentrated.

Why does the lemonade turn bitter if overblended?

Overblending releases the bitter oils from the lime peel and pith, which can overpower the drink’s fresh and sweet balance. Blend just until combined to avoid this.