Authentic Indian Lemon Tea Recipe – Easy Iced Tea for Summer

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Indian Lemon Tea Recipe – Easy Iced Tea For Summer

Okay, let’s be real. Is there anything more refreshing on a hot day than a tall glass of iced tea? But not just any iced tea… we’re talking about the kind my Dadi (grandmother) used to make – a vibrant, zingy Indian Lemon Tea! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and oh-so-cooling. I first made this myself when I was craving a little piece of home, and honestly, it’s been a summer staple ever since. You’ll absolutely love how easy it is to whip up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average iced tea. Indian Lemon Tea, or Nimbu Chai as it’s often called, is a burst of sunshine in a glass. It’s incredibly refreshing, naturally energizing, and seriously addictive. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase the simple beauty of Indian flavors. It’s perfect for a lazy afternoon, a summer party, or just when you need a little pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 5.25 cups water (approximately 1.2 liters)
• 2 tablespoons black tea powder (around 15-20 grams)
• 0.5 cup sugar (approximately 100 grams – adjust to your liking!)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (about 45 ml)
• As required ice cubes
• Few lemon slices, for garnish
• Mint sprigs (optional), for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Getting these right makes all the difference.

• Black Tea Powder: Traditionally, we use a strong, robust black tea like Assam or a blend that includes Assam. It gives the tea that beautiful color and bold flavor. You can find it easily in most Indian grocery stores. CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) tea is also a great option!
• Sweetness: Sweetness is very regional in India! Some families like it super sweet, others prefer a more subtle touch. Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. I usually start with ½ cup and add more if needed.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable, in my opinion! It really brightens up the tea. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same zing.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get brewing! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. First, bring 5.25 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, turn off the heat. This is important – we don’t want to over-brew the tea and make it bitter. Add the 2 tablespoons of black tea powder and ½ cup of sugar. Give it a good mix!
3. Now, let it steep for 4-5 minutes. This allows the tea to release all its lovely flavor and color.
4. Stir in the 3 tablespoons of lemon juice. Taste and adjust the quantity for your desired tanginess. I like mine with a good kick!
5. Strain the tea into a heat-safe jar. This gets rid of the tea leaves and gives you a smooth, clear tea.
6. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 30-60 minutes until thoroughly chilled. Patience is key here!
7. Fill serving glasses with ice cubes and a few lemon slices.
8. Pour the chilled tea into the glasses. Garnish with a sprig of mint if you’re feeling fancy.
9. Give it a good stir and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t overboil the water! It can make the tea taste bitter.
• Steeping time is crucial. Too short, and the tea will be weak. Too long, and it will be bitter.
• A fine-mesh strainer works best for straining the tea, ensuring a clear brew.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan: Simply substitute the sugar with your favorite vegan sweetener, like agave or maple syrup.
• Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
• Spice Level: My friend, Priya, loves adding a small piece of ginger or a couple of cardamom pods while the tea is steeping. It adds a lovely warmth!
• Festival Adaptations: During the scorching summer months, my family makes a big batch of this and adds a splash of rose water for an extra cooling effect. It’s perfect for celebrations!

Serving Suggestions

This tea is amazing on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate it:

• Serve with a side of namkeen (savory Indian snacks) for a perfect sweet and salty combo.
• Pair it with a light lunch or afternoon tea.
• Garnish with fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.

Storage Instructions

Leftover tea can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh! The flavor tends to diminish over time.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• What type of tea powder is best for Indian Lemon Tea? Assam or a blend containing Assam is traditionally used for its strong flavor and color. CTC tea also works wonderfully.
• Can I make this tea ahead of time? Yes, you can brew the tea and chill it ahead of time. Just add the ice and lemon slices right before serving.
• How can I adjust the sweetness level? Start with ½ cup of sugar and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• What’s the best way to strain the tea? A fine-mesh strainer is ideal for a clear brew. You can also line the strainer with cheesecloth for extra filtration.
• Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice? While you can, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Lemon extract just doesn’t have the same bright, zesty taste.