Masala Soda Shikanji Recipe: A Refreshing Indian Drink to Spice Up Your Day
Masala Soda Shikanji is a tangy, spicy, and refreshing Indian drink that brings together the zest of lemon, the kick of green chilies, and the aromatic flavors of chaat masala and cumin. This unique twist on traditional lemonade is perfect for hot summer days, evening snacks, or any time you need a burst of flavor and coolness. Whether you’re hosting a chaat party or simply looking for a delicious drink to accompany your meal, Masala Soda Shikanji is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
With its combination of bubbly soda, spicy masala, and fresh herbs, this drink adds a delightful punch to your palate. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this flavorful and thirst-quenching beverage at home!
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sprite (or any lemon soda) | 3 cups |
| Lemon (freshly squeezed) | 2 lemons |
| Green chilies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Chaat masala powder | 1 tsp |
| Black salt or rock salt | As per taste |
| Cumin powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Lemon wedges | 3 wedges |
| Fresh mint leaves | A handful |
| Ice cubes | 10 cubes |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking time | 0 minutes |
| Total time | 15 minutes |
Servings
| Servings | 3 servings |
Instructions
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Prepare the Base: Start by filling a pitcher with ice cubes. This will form the base of your Masala Soda Shikanji and keep the drink chilled.
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Add the Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice of 2 lemons directly into the pitcher with ice. This adds a tangy flavor that’s essential for this refreshing drink.
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Mix in the Sprite: Pour in 3 cups of Sprite or any lemon soda of your choice. The fizz from the soda adds a bubbly texture that makes this drink so enjoyable.
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Prepare the Spicy Masala: Take a mortar and pestle (or a small grinder) and add the finely chopped green chilies and 1 teaspoon of chaat masala powder. Crush or grind the mixture well, releasing the flavors of the spices. You can add a little water to help with the grinding process.
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Combine the Masala with the Drink: Add the spicy masala mixture into the pitcher with the lemon soda and ice. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
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Add Cumin Powder and Salt: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder and black salt (or rock salt) as per your taste. This will enhance the flavors and give the drink its signature savory kick.
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Garnish with Lemon Wedges and Mint: Add 3 lemon wedges to the pitcher for extra tang, and toss in a handful of fresh mint leaves. The mint will add a refreshing aroma and a cooling effect to the drink.
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Serve and Enjoy: Stir the drink well to combine all the ingredients. Serve your Masala Soda Shikanji chilled, garnished with more mint leaves or lemon slices if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Masala Soda Shikanji pairs wonderfully with various Indian street foods. For a full-on chaat experience, serve it alongside Pav Bhaji, Aloo Tikki Chaat, or Bhel Puri. The spiciness of the drink complements the flavors of these savory dishes, making it the perfect refreshment for your next party or casual gathering.
Why You’ll Love Masala Soda Shikanji
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Instant Refreshment: With its combination of citrusy lemon, spicy chaat masala, and chilled soda, this drink will cool you down instantly, making it ideal for summer or hot weather.
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Customizable: You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer green chilies, or tweak the salt to suit your preference. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients!
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Perfect for Chaat Parties: This drink is a crowd favorite at chaat parties, barbecues, and casual get-togethers, offering a deliciously unique alternative to regular sodas or iced teas.
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A Flavor Explosion: The contrast between tangy, spicy, and savory flavors makes every sip an exciting experience. It’s not just a drink—it’s a flavor-packed adventure!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 50 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | Approx. 200mg |
| Fiber | 0g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.)
Variations and Tips
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add a little bit of sugar or a sugar substitute to balance out the tanginess.
- Make It More Spicy: For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of red chili powder or even a few more green chilies.
- Try Different Sodas: While Sprite is the most popular choice, you can also experiment with other lemon sodas or even soda water for a less sweet version.
- Herb Variations: Mint is the traditional herb for garnish, but you can also add a bit of coriander or basil for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Masala Soda Shikanji is more than just a refreshing beverage—it’s a flavorful experience that brings together the best of Indian spices and citrus. With its vibrant taste, it’s an ideal drink to complement your favorite street foods or serve as a lively addition to any social occasion. Easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect way to impress your guests with a drink that’s both unique and full of personality.
Give it a try, and elevate your next meal or gathering with this fun, flavorful drink!
