Brazilian Lemonade
- Level: Easy
- Yield: 5 1/2 to 6 cups
- Total: 10 min
- Active: 10 min
Ingredients
2 limes (see Cook’s Note), scrubbed to remove dirt or wax
4 cups ice water
3/4 cup granulated sugar, or more if not using condensed milk
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk, optional
Ice cubes
Directions
- Start by slicing off the ends of the limes, then slice each lime in half lengthwise. Using a knife, remove the line of white pith in the center and discard any seeds. Quarter each lime and place them in a high-speed blender.
- Add the ice water, sugar and condensed milk if using. Pulse the blender about 7 times, or blend the mixture for about 8 to 10 seconds. Do not blend the limes any longer than this or the lemonade will turn bitter!
- Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer set over a pitcher. Shake the strainer to release any remaining juice. Discard the pulp. Pour the lemonade into glasses with lots of ice. The drink is best served immediately since it can become bitter as it sits, but if you have leftovers you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Enjoy!
Cook’s Note
This lemonade is best made with pale-green limes with thin skins; these limes are juicier and less tart than their dark-green counterparts, making them ideal for this drink. The sweetened condensed milk not only makes the lemonade creamy, but it also makes it sweeter. You can always adjust the sweetness of your drink according to your taste.