Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Brazilian Limonada: The Refreshing Recipe You Need This Summer


  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Refreshing, creamy, and tangy Brazilian limeade with sweetened condensed milk for a unique twist.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 68 Limes (depending on size and juiciness), preferably Persian limes
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cups Cold Water
  • 1/2 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk
  • Ice cubes, for serving
  • Lime wedges, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the Limes: Scrub limes under cold water and pat dry.
  2. Cut the Limes: Cut off the ends of each lime, then cut each lime into quarters.
  3. Blend the Limes with Water: Add the quartered limes and 2 cups of the cold water to a blender. Blend on high speed for about 10-15 seconds. Do not over-blend!
  4. Strain the Mixture: Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl. Pour the blended lime mixture into the sieve. Use a spoon or spatula to gently press the solids, extracting as much juice as possible. Discard the pulp and seeds.
  5. Add Sugar and Water: To the bowl with the lime concentrate, add the granulated sugar and the remaining 2 cups of cold water. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust the sweetness as needed.
  6. Incorporate the Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and stir gently until it’s fully incorporated.
  7. Chill the Limonada: Chill the limonada in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  8. Prepare the Glasses: Fill glasses with ice cubes.
  9. Pour and Garnish: Pour the chilled limonada over the ice in the glasses. Garnish each glass with a lime wedge.
  10. Serve Immediately: Serve the limonada immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Lime Variety: Experiment with other types of limes, such as Key limes or even Meyer lemons.
  • Sweetener Options: Use honey, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute.
  • Sparkling Limonada: Replace some of the water with sparkling water or club soda.
  • Frozen Limonada: Blend the limonada with ice until it reaches a slushy consistency.
  • Spiked Limonada: Add a shot of cachaça (Brazilian rum) or vodka to each glass.
  • Ginger Limonada: Add a small piece of fresh ginger to the blender when you’re making the lime concentrate.
  • Mint Limonada: Muddle a few fresh mint leaves in the bottom of each glass before adding the ice and limonada.
  • Adjusting Sweetness and Tartness: Adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking.
  • Don’t Over-Blend: Over-blending the limes will release bitter compounds from the peel.
  • Use Fresh Limes: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the best flavor.
  • Strain Thoroughly: Make sure to strain the lime mixture thoroughly to remove any pulp and seeds.
  • Presentation Matters: A simple garnish can elevate the presentation of your limonada.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes