This anchan lemonade recipealso called butterfly pea lemonade, is a sweet and tangy non-alcoholic drink with a magical color-changing twist. It’s easy to make, has several health benefits, and is perfect for your next party!
For more fun Thai drinks, try Thai tea, name yenand Thai lime iced tea!
What does butterfly pea lemonade taste like?
Butterfly pea lemonade tastes tangy and citrusy from fresh lemon or limewith a hint of earthiness from butterfly pea flowers. You can customize the sweetness, and sparkling water adds a nice refreshing fizz.
Nam anchan manao
The Thai name for this unique drink is nam anchan manao.
This isn’t just any lemonade, it’s a visually stunning drink poured in beautiful layers. The butterfly pea flowers create the vibrant blue or purple hues, which you can easily adjust by varying the number of flowers you use.
It’s especially fun for kids or perfect for summer parties, as it’s incredibly refreshing and absolutely delicious. I love serving it to guests who prefer non-alcoholic options, since it’s always a hit!
You’ll also love the health benefits of butterfly pea flowers. They’re rich in antioxidants, support cognitive function, and promote relaxation while helping reduce stress. Known for their natural anti-inflammatory properties, they can even enhance skin health! (source)
This magical drink is one you simply have to try, especially on a lazy Sunday afternoon when you’re looking for something fun to make!
Ingredient Notes
You can find everything you need at Asian markets or Asian grocery stores. Head to the recipe card at the bottom of this post for all the measurements!
- Butterfly pea flowers – You can find dried butterfly pea flowers online or at Asian grocery stores. I used fresh flowers, but dried ones work just as well. Adjust the amount to control the intensity of the color. You can also use them in this butterfly pea milk tea.
- Hot water – Needed to steep the butterfly pea flowers and extract their color.
- Fresh lemon juice / lime juice – Both work well; you can choose based on your flavor preference. Lemons are a bit harder to find in Thailand, but I managed to find some at Makro.
- Sparkling water – I love fizzy drinks and a fizzy lemonade is no different!
- Sugar syrup – Sweeten to taste; adjust based on how tangy or sweet you prefer your drink.
How to make anchan lemonade
Step 1: Add fresh or dried butterfly pea flowers to a cup or small pot. Pour hot water over the flowers and let them steep for 5-7 minutes until the water turns a vibrant blue. Strain and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Add sugar to your serving glass along with fresh lemon juice. Stir well, add ice cubes, and sparkling water, and then carefully pour on some of the strained butterfly pea tea.
How to store leftover limeade
Store leftover butterfly pea limeade in an airtight container or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain freshness.
More Thai drinks to try
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Anchan Lemonade (Butterfly Pea Lemonade)
Butterfly pea flower lemonade is a quick and refreshing drink with vibrant colors, made with lemon or lime. A fun drink perfect for kids!
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Add fresh or dried butterfly pea flowers to a cup or small pot. Pour hot water over the flowers and let them steep for 5-7 minutes until the water turns a vibrant blue. Strain and set aside to cool.
1 1/2 cups loosely packed butterfly pea flowers, 1/2 cup hot water
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Add sugar to your serving glass along with fresh lemon juice. Stir well, add ice cubes, and sparkling water, and then carefully pour on some of the strained butterfly pea tea.
4 tbsps fresh lemon juice, 4 tbsps sugar syrup, just under 1 cup sparkling water
- Use the nutrition card in this recipe as a guideline.
- Butterfly pea flowers – I used fresh flowers, but dried ones work just as well. Adjust the amount to control the intensity of the color.
Calories: 108kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Sodium: 44mg | Potassium: 27mg | Sugar: 29g | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 1mg