Lime Juice
Hawker • Singapore
About Lime Juice
Fresh lime juice with sugar — hawker centre refresher
How to Make Lime Juice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Lime Juice, locally known as 'limau juice', is a beloved beverage in Singapore’s vibrant hawker and kopitiam scene. Ubiquitous across food courts and coffee shops, this refreshing drink is a staple for Singaporeans seeking respite from the tropical heat. Hawker stalls often offer it freshly squeezed, sometimes with additions like salt or preserved lime (asam boi), reflecting Singapore’s knack for fusion and innovation within its food culture. The taste of Singaporean Lime Juice is a delightful balance of tartness and gentle sweetness, making it a universally loved thirst-quencher for all ages. Its origins can be traced back to the everyday need for simple, hydrating drinks in the bustling city-state. Today, it stands out not only as a cooling beverage but also as a healthy, vegan-friendly option that fits seamlessly into modern diets. Whether enjoyed plain or with creative local twists, Lime Juice remains an essential part of Singaporean daily life and hawker culture, showcasing the city’s unique blend of tradition and contemporary tastes.
Ingredients(for 1 tall kopitiam glass per person (approx. 250ml))
- 6 whole Fresh limes (use local calamansi or key limes for best flavor)
- 2 cups Water (chilled, filtered)
- 1 cup Ice cubes (optional, for serving) - optional
- 2 tablespoons Natural sweetener (try honey, agave, or gula melaka (palm sugar))
- a pinch Salt (enhances flavor, optional) - optional
- 1 piece Preserved salted lime (asam boi) (for fusion flavor, optional) - optional
- 4-6 leaves Mint leaves (for garnish) - optional
- 2-4 slices Lime slices (for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash the fresh limes thoroughly and roll them on a hard surface to release more juice.
2 minutes
Rolling limes makes them juicier and easier to squeeze.
- 2
Slice the limes in half and squeeze out the juice using a manual citrus juicer or your hands. Strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp.
5 minutes
Use a strainer to ensure your drink is smooth and seed-free.
- 3
In a large jug, combine the freshly squeezed lime juice with chilled water. Stir well.
2 minutes
Adjust water quantity to your preferred tartness.
- 4
Add natural sweetener of your choice. Stir until fully dissolved.
2 minutes
Start with less sweetener and add more to taste.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Lime Juice recipe is a healthy choice as it uses fresh, whole ingredients and avoids artificial additives. Using natural sweeteners and optional asam boi, it delivers great flavor with fewer calories. The drink is hydrating, supports immune health, and can help curb sugary beverage cravings, making it a smart alternative for those watching their weight or aiming for balanced nutrition.
Lime Juice is naturally low in calories and rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health. Limes also offer small amounts of potassium, magnesium, and folate. This beverage is hydrating, helps replenish electrolytes (especially with a pinch of salt), and can aid digestion. When prepared with minimal sweetener, it remains low in sugar and suitable for most diets, including vegan and vegetarian.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use local calamansi limes for an authentic Singaporean flavor.
- 💡Adjust sweetener and salt based on your dietary needs and taste preferences.
- 💡For a sparkling twist, replace some water with soda water just before serving.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Lime Juice in a covered jug in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving as separation may occur. Best enjoyed fresh.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 65.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
