Lime Juice
Tea & Drinks • Sri Lanka
ගැන Lime Juice
Fresh lime with sugar and salt — universal refresher.
How to Make Sri Lankan Lime Juice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sri Lankan Lime Juice, locally known as 'Dehi Saruwath', is a beloved refreshment enjoyed across all regions of Sri Lanka. This vibrant beverage is an essential part of Sri Lankan hospitality, often served to guests on warm afternoons or after a hearty meal. Its roots are deeply embedded in island culture, where limes are abundantly grown in home gardens and markets, lending their unique tang and aroma to everyday life. The taste of Sri Lankan Lime Juice is a harmonious blend of tart, sweet, and a subtle floral note, making it a revitalizing companion to spicy Sri Lankan cuisine. Unlike commercial lime drinks, this homemade version uses fresh lime juice, a touch of natural sweetener, and aromatic ingredients like a pinch of salt and Sri Lankan jaggery or kithul treacle. The result is a health-conscious, vegan-friendly beverage that hydrates and energizes while capturing the essence of the tropics. Perfect for those seeking a low-calorie, plant-based drink, Sri Lankan Lime Juice is not only delicious but also quick and simple to prepare. Its refreshing flavor and cultural significance make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to experience authentic Sri Lankan beverages with a healthy twist.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (approx. 200ml) per serving)
- 3 medium Fresh limes (Sour limes, 'Dehi' in Sinhala)
- 2 cups Filtered water
- 2 tbsp Kithul treacle or jaggery (Natural Sri Lankan sweetener)
- 1/8 tsp Sea salt
- 1 cup Crushed ice
- 2-4 slices Lime slices (For garnish) - optional
- 4-6 leaves Mint leaves (Optional, for aroma) - optional
- 1 tsp Stevia or coconut sugar (Optional, for lower calorie adaptation) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Roll the limes on a countertop to release more juice. Cut each lime in half and squeeze out the juice into a mixing bowl, removing seeds.
3 minutes
Warming limes slightly yields more juice.
- 2
Add kithul treacle or jaggery to the fresh lime juice and mix until fully dissolved.
2 minutes
Dissolve sweetener in a small amount of warm water if using jaggery.
- 3
Pour in the filtered water and mix well. Adjust sweetness or tartness to taste.
2 minutes
Taste and balance flavors before adding ice.
- 4
Add sea salt and stir. This enhances the flavor and aids hydration.
1 minute
A pinch of salt elevates the lime aroma.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This lime juice recipe is a great choice for health-conscious individuals as it uses natural sweeteners instead of refined sugar, making it lower on the glycemic index. Fresh limes deliver essential vitamins and hydration. With no dairy, gluten, or artificial ingredients, it's suitable for vegan, vegetarian, and weight-conscious diets.
Sri Lankan Lime Juice is packed with vitamin C, which supports immunity and skin health. The use of natural sweeteners like kithul treacle or jaggery provides minerals such as calcium and iron. This beverage is low in calories, contains no fat, and is free of cholesterol and gluten. Hydrating and rich in antioxidants, it’s a wholesome choice for all ages.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor and nutrition.
- 💡Adjust sweetness and salt to suit your palate and dietary needs.
- 💡Chill glasses beforehand for an extra-refreshing experience.
Storage & Serving
Store prepared lime juice (without ice) in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add ice and fresh garnishes just before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 65.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.1 g |
| Fiber | 0.4 g |