📝 About This Recipe
Despite its name, Limonada Suíça is a quintessential Brazilian refreshment known for its unique preparation method where whole limes are blended briefly to extract aromatic oils from the zest. This vibrant drink balances the sharp acidity of fresh limes with the velvety sweetness of sweetened condensed milk, resulting in a frothy, pale-green nectar that is incredibly addictive. It is the ultimate cooling companion for a hot summer afternoon or a traditional churrasco feast.
🥗 Ingredients
The Citrus Base
- 4 large Fresh Limes (thin-skinned Persian limes are best; washed thoroughly)
- 4 cups Cold Filtered Water (must be very cold for the best texture)
The Creamy Component
- 1/2 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk (adjust to 3/4 cup for extra sweetness and creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (optional, to balance the tartness)
Chilling & Garnish
- 2 cups Ice Cubes (crushed or cubed)
- 4 pieces Fresh Mint Sprigs (for a fragrant garnish)
- 4 rounds Lime Slices (thinly sliced for the glass rim)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Thoroughly wash the limes under cold water, using a vegetable brush if necessary to remove any wax or debris from the skins.
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2
Slice off the ends (the poles) of each lime and discard them. Cut each lime into eight even wedges.
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3
Carefully remove the white pithy core from the center of each wedge; this is a crucial step to prevent the drink from becoming overly bitter.
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4
Place the lime wedges into a high-powered blender and pour in the 4 cups of ice-cold filtered water.
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5
Pulse the blender only 5 to 7 times. You want to break the limes down to release the juice and oils, but do not pulverize the skin completely, as this releases bitterness.
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6
Immediately place a fine-mesh strainer over a large pitcher and pour the lime mixture through it to remove all solids and pulp.
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7
Use a spoon to press down on the lime remains in the strainer to extract every last drop of flavorful juice, then discard the solids.
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8
Rinse the blender jar quickly to remove any leftover bits of skin, then pour the strained lime juice back into the blender.
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9
Add the sweetened condensed milk, sugar (if using), and 1 cup of the ice cubes to the blender.
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10
Blend on high speed for about 20-30 seconds until the mixture is frothy, pale, and perfectly emulsified.
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11
Taste the limeade; if it is too tart, add another tablespoon of condensed milk and pulse briefly to combine.
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12
Fill four tall glasses with the remaining ice cubes and pour the fresh limeade over the top.
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13
Garnish each glass with a lime round and a sprig of fresh mint for a professional, aromatic touch.
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14
Serve immediately while the foam is thick and the drink is ice-cold.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use limes with thin, smooth skins as they contain more juice and less bitter white pith. Do not over-blend the limes; the 'pulse' method is the secret to a bright flavor without the harshness of the rind. This drink must be consumed immediately; if left to sit, the lime oils will naturally turn the juice bitter over time. For a dairy-free version, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with sweetened condensed coconut milk. If you prefer a less creamy drink, reduce the condensed milk and increase the granulated sugar to taste.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a traditional Brazilian Feijoada or grilled Picanha steak. Pair with salty appetizers like Pão de Queijo (cheese bread) or crispy Coxinhas. For an adult version, add a splash of Cachaça to turn it into a creamy Batida-style cocktail. Enjoy as a palate cleanser between courses of a heavy meal. Serve in chilled copper mugs or frosted highball glasses to maintain the temperature.