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Sima

A traditional Finnish lemonade with a light natural carbonation, flavored with lemon and sweetened with sugar for a refreshing summer drink.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beverages
Cuisine: Finnish
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 cups water boiling
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 lemon juice and zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 4 cups cold water
  • Raisins for garnish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Wooden spoon
  • Funnel
  • Bottles with tight seals
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

Method
 

  1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil at 212°F.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup sugar and 1/4 cup brown sugar until fully dissolved (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add juice and zest of 1 lemon and stir to combine.
  4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature (about 30 minutes) to avoid killing the yeast.
  5. Once cool, sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast and stir gently.
  6. Add 4 cups of cold water to dilute and mix well.
  7. Cover the bowl with a cloth and ferment at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours, checking for bubbles.
  8. Strain the sima into clean bottles using a fine mesh strainer and a funnel.
  9. Add a few raisins to each bottle as a natural carbonation indicator.
  10. Seal the bottles tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Store refrigerated and consume within one week. Ensure bottles are tightly sealed to maintain carbonation.