Lime and Ginger Cooler (Lem na Singa)
The Quirky Foodster Team

Ingredients
- Lime juice — 120 ml (4 fl oz)
- Grated fresh ginger — 2 tbsp
- Water — 960 ml (32 fl oz)
- Sugar, or to taste — 100 g (3.5 oz)
- Ice, to serve
Method
- Combine the grated ginger with a little of the water, and let steep for 15 minutes.
- Strain the ginger water into a jug, pressing to extract the flavour; discard the ginger solids.
- Add the lime juice, remaining water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Chill well before serving over ice.
Introduction: A refreshing blend of fresh lime juice and grated ginger, lightly sweetened, a cooling drink suited to Papua New Guinea's warm climate.
Cultural Background: With citrus and ginger both grown across Papua New Guinea, combining them into a bright, spicy-sweet cooler is a natural and refreshing way to use these ingredients on a hot day.
Tips: Adjust the ginger steeping time to taste — longer gives a stronger, spicier drink. Taste and adjust the sugar and lime balance before serving.
Variations: Add a few mint leaves for extra freshness. Use a mix of lime and orange juice for a different citrus profile.
Storage: Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This drink is served cold and is not reheated.
FAQs:
Q: Is this drink very spicy from the ginger?
A: It has a gentle warmth from the ginger, balanced by the sweet-tart lime, adjustable by steeping time.
Q: Can this be made ahead?
A: Yes, it keeps well for a few days in the refrigerator.
- Lime juice — 120 ml (4 fl oz)
- Grated fresh ginger — 2 tbsp
- Water — 960 ml (32 fl oz)
- Sugar, or to taste — 100 g (3.5 oz)
- Ice, to serve

Please log in to leave a comment.