Egyptian Mint Lemonade

Egyptian Mint Lemonade

Egyptian mint lemonade, known as “laymun bil nahnah,” is one of the most iconic and refreshing drinks in Egypt. It’s a vibrant blend of bright citrus, fresh mint, and natural sweetness that instantly cools you down—especially during the hot summer months. Unlike regular lemonade, this version combines whole limes, fragrant mint leaves, and freshly peeled lemons, creating a bold, zesty flavor with a cooling herbal finish. Simple, uplifting, and incredibly delicious, it’s a staple in Egyptian homes and a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, invigorating drinks.

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Ingredients

• 4 lemons

• 6 limes

• mint leaves

• ½ cup sugar

• 6 cups water

• ice

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Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by getting your citrus and mint ready for blending. Peel the lemons completely to avoid bitterness, but keep the lime peels on and simply cut the limes into quarters. For the mint, pick the leaves off the stems so only the fresh, fragrant leaves go into the drink. This preparation ensures the perfect balance of brightness, freshness, and natural mint flavor.

Blend the Mint Lemonade

Add the peeled lemons, quartered limes, mint leaves, sugar, and water to a blender. Blend just until everything breaks down smoothly — do not over-blend. Over-blending can cause the lime peels to release excessive bitterness, which can overpower the refreshing citrus-mint flavor. Blend briefly, taste, and adjust the sugar and mint levels to your liking.

Strain and Adjust

Pour the blended mixture through a fine strainer to remove pulp and any peel remnants. After straining, taste the drink again and adjust with a bit more water or sugar if needed until it reaches your preferred sweetness and intensity.

Serve

Serve the “laymun bil nahnah” over plenty of ice for the ultimate refreshing experience. This chilled Egyptian mint lemonade is best enjoyed immediately for maximum freshness and flavor.