Swa watra (Surinamese lime water)
Swa watra literally means "sour water" and is the ultimate Surinamese thirst-quencher for scorching hot days. It is very simple to make: freshly squeezed limes, plenty of sweetness and a dash of Angostura, topped up with ice-cold water. That is exactly what makes it so good. The first sip wakes your tongue up: intensely sour at first, then gently sweet, and together the flavours are just right. With no fuss, it is ready in five minutes and you will probably have most of what you need at home. It is refreshing in the way only something truly sour can be, which is why you keep drinking it. Anyone who enjoys that sweet and sour combination should definitely make it. It is perfect for summer, and those who wish can add a dash of tequila in keeping with tradition.
Equipment
1 glass pitcher at least 2 litres in capacity
1 citrus juicer
Servings glasses
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1500 ml water (cold)
- 6 limes (juice 5 and slice 1)
- 175 g brown sugar (light)
- 1 tsp Angostura
- ice cube (plenty)
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash 5 limes for juicing and 1 lime for slicing well. Roll the limes for the juice firmly across the worktop, pressing down with the palm of your hand. This helps them release their juice more easily. Halve and squeeze them, then cut the other lime into thin slices.
Method
- Generously fill a clean glass pitcher with ice cube. Pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice.
- Add 1500 ml water, 175 g brown sugar and 1 tsp Angostura. Stir gently but thoroughly until the sugar has dissolved and the sweet and tart flavours are well combined.
To serve
- Add the lime slices to the pitcher and taste. Swa watra should have a pronounced sweet and tart flavour, so add a little more sugar or lime juice if needed. Pour straight away into glasses with extra ice and serve thoroughly chilled.
Notes
Swa watra should be ice-cold with a pronounced sweet and tart flavour. Always taste it after stirring, as some limes are sharper and juicier than others. For an adults-only variation, add a splash of tequila to each glass. This lets you adjust the strength separately without upsetting the balance of the pitcher.
Nutrition
Calories: 184kcalCarbohydrates: 44.4gProtein: 0.2gSugars: 43.3g
Tried this recipe?Let me know what you think!
