Brazilian Limonada – made with limes, also works with kumquats
This is a version of a Brazilian soft drink that is a great way to use up limes and kumquats. This can totally be enjoyed straight but it can also can be used as a base for an adaptation of a Margarita or a Rum Punch.
It is really just a bunch of washed limes, roughly chopped and briefly blended with some water. This is strained and then blended again with sweetened condensed milk, sugar and ice for a drink that is tart refreshing, sweet, and creamy.
It also works really well with kumquats.
Ingredients
Process the fruit (easily double or triple the quantities and save in the fridge for another day or two)
- 4 Limes washed and cut into quarters, or a few handfuls of kumquats – just whole, no need to cut them up
- 2 Cups Cold Water
For finishing – adjust according to the number of serves.
For 4 serves made with 4 limes as above
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 tbs sweetened condensed milk
For serving
- 4 cups Ice Cubes
- Rum to taste – optional
Method
- Start by chopping the ends off each of the limes then cut into quarters and then in half again to give eighths
- Add the chopped limes to a blender along with the cold water.
- Blend by pulsing, on high, for about 20 seconds. Best not to turn it to mush, don’t over-blend or it will be too bitter.
- Strain the liquid through a sieve into a jug with a good pouring spout. When it has strained through discard the remains.
- Wash the blender, then add the lime juice and water mix, condensed milk and sugar back to the blender and blend for another 30 seconds.
- Now work out what portions you need and store the excess in a bottle to go into the fridge.
- To the amount you are going to be drinking add a couple of cups of ice per person and blend for another 30 seconds, or until the ice is as crushed as you want it.
- Pour into glasses and add any alcohol – tastes great without it – enjoy!
- Store any masterbatch leftovers in the fridge, for up to three days.