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There is nothing better to quench the thirst than a glass of refreshing drink, in the lazy hot afternoons of summer...right? But what if you could enjoy a drink that not only refreshes you but also takes care of your health?
This Summer, why not indulge in traditional Indian drinks that are not only delicious but also good for you?
Traditional Indian Summer Drinks Of India
This summer, consider treating yourself to some traditional Indian drinks that offer not only delicious flavor but also a range of health benefits. From the tangy and sweet flavors of aam panna made from raw mangoes to the cooling and soothing properties of buttermilk, the options are endless. These drinks not only provide a refreshing respite from the heat, but also help to balance your body's internal temperature, boost digestion and immunity, and keep you hydrated.
So why not add some variety to your summer beverage repertoire and try out these delicious and healthy drinks?
1) Aam Panna
Aam panna is a delicious and invigorating drink that is prepared by blending raw mangoes, mint leaves, and an assortment of spices. This chilled beverage is a popular summer drink in North India due to its incredible cooling and hydrating properties. Not only is it refreshing, but it is also packed with essential nutrients, making it a healthy alternative to sugary drinks.
Aam Panna helps keep the body hydrated during the hot and humid summer days, making it an ideal choice for those who sweat excessively. Additionally, it has been found to aid in the treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders, making it a popular choice for digestive issues.
2) Jal-jeera
Jal-jeera, an incredibly refreshing drink popularly consumed in northern India during summer, has a unique blend of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The drink derives its name from two main ingredients, namely Jal (water) and jeera (cumin), which are the key components used to create this flavorful beverage.
However, the secret to its distinct aroma and taste lies in the jal-jeera powder, which is a mix of ginger, black pepper, black salt, mint, dry mango powder, and cumin. This powder is readily available in the market for quick and easy preparation. The fusion of all these herbs and spices creates an invigorating drink that is both delicious and healthy.
3) Bael Sharbat
Bael, a fruit also known as golden apple, wood apple, or stone apple, is a highly nutritious fruit that is widely consumed in North India. The drink made from this fruit is not only delicious but also very healthy, as it provides a refreshing and cooling effect to the body. In addition to this, it is known for its numerous benefits in aiding digestion and relieving constipation.
To make this sharbat, the pulp of the fruit is soaked in water for an hour, and then the pulp is strained and mixed with some spices. If needed, a little raw sugar can be added to enhance the taste. Overall, this drink is a perfect blend of taste and health, making it a popular choice among health enthusiasts.
4) Shikanjvi
This delightful beverage hails from the northern region of India and is particularly popular during the sweltering summer months. It's a staple in almost every household during this time and is renowned for its refreshing taste and ability to cool the body down.
The traditional recipe calls for a blend of tangy lemon juice, zesty ginger powder, pungent black salt, fragrant cumin powder, and spicy black pepper, all mixed with a dash of raw sugar in water. This medley of flavors not only cools the body down but also aids in digestion, making it the perfect thirst-quencher for a hot summer's day.
5) Khus Sharbat
Khus, also known as vetiver, is a type of grass that has been widely used for its therapeutic properties for centuries. Its roots are rich in essential oils that have a soothing and cooling effect on the body. Khus is known to have anti-inflammatory properties, and it is believed to promote healthy skin and calm the mind.
One of the most popular ways to consume khus is by drinking khus sharbat. This refreshing drink is made by mixing khus syrup with water and ice. While ready-made khus syrup is readily available in the market, traditional khus sharbat is made by soaking the washed roots and grass of khus in water overnight, straining the water, and then adding raw sugar and cooking it until it reaches a syrup-like consistency.
6) Kokum Sharbat
This beverage is crafted from the exquisite fruit known as kokum, which is highly sought-after in the southern regions of India, particularly in Maharashtra, Goa, and Kerala. Its cooling properties make it a delightful sip on warm summer days, providing a refreshing boost that can also aid digestion.
To create this thirst-quenching drink, the strained pulp of the fruit is soaked in water for several hours before being mixed with a selection of aromatic spices, raw sugar, and seasoning. For those who prefer convenience, it is also readily available in markets for instant consumption.
7) Sattu Drink
Sattu is a type of flour that is prepared by roasting either black gram (kale chane) barley (jau) or a combination of both. It is a highly popular and commonly consumed food item in the northern region of India, especially in the state of Bihar. The drinks made from sattu have a cooling effect on the body and are highly nutritious as well.
These drinks are perfect to combat the heat and dehydration effects of the summer season. Furthermore, sattu helps in improving bowel movement, flushing out toxins, and curing constipation. It is also a great option for diabetics as it has a low glycemic index. One can prepare both sweet as well as savory drinks using sattu by adding a little seasoning along with salt or raw sugar in water.
8) Lassi
Lassi, a popular yogurt-based drink in India, is known by different names across the country. Traditionally prepared by blending yogurt (dahi) and water with black salt and cumin powder, this savory form of lassi, also called chaas, has a slightly thinner consistency than its sweet counterpart. In certain regions, it is infused with green chilies, coriander, and curry leaves, making it a refreshing and digestive drink when consumed after lunch.
Sweet lassi, on the other hand, is made by blending yogurt (dahi) and water with raw sugar and can be flavored with mint, rose water, and saffron, which is particularly popular in Rajasthan and Gujarat. Another popular variety is the mango lassi, made by adding sweet mango pulp to the mix.
Makkhan lassi, originating from the state of Punjab, is another famous variety of lassi. The creamy texture of this lassi is derived from the addition of makkhan or butter. Whether savory or sweet, lassi is a delicious and refreshing drink that is enjoyed by people of all ages across India.
9) Kachi Lassi
Kachi lassi is an incredibly refreshing beverage that originates from the state of Punjab, India. Unlike the classic lassi, which is made from yogurt or curd, this version is prepared with milk as its base ingredient. The milk is blended with chilled water and rose syrup, creating a sweet and fragrant drink that is perfect for hot summer days. This traditional beverage not only cools down the body but also soothes the mind, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a calming and rejuvenating experience.
10) Thandai
Thandai is a delightful and refreshing beverage that is widely enjoyed in the northern regions of India, particularly in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. This milk-based drink is prepared by combining a variety of seeds, nuts, and spices with milk and raw sugar.
The drink can be flavored with a range of ingredients, including mango, rose petals, saffron, and more, thereby creating a diverse range of variants that are perfect for the hot summer months. With its rich and creamy texture and unique blend of flavors, Thandai is a drink that is sure to satisfy and refresh anyone who tries it.
How To Give Indian Traditional Drinks A Healthier Twist?
It's a common belief that most traditional beverages and refreshing drinks are often high in calories and lack nutritional value. However, it's important to note that this is not always the case, as the true distinction lies in their preparation. Specifically, it's crucial to consider the type of sweetener, the quality of ingredients, and the nutritional value they offer.
When it comes to sweeteners, it's advisable to opt for natural sweeteners or raw forms of sugar that have not undergone any processing. This is because processed sweeteners often contain harmful chemicals and additives that can harm your health in the long run. By contrast, natural sweeteners are much safer to consume. For example, honey, maple syrup, jaggery, and agave nectar are all-natural sweeteners and are often considered healthier alternatives to refined sugar because they contain small amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
However, sweeteners should still be consumed in moderation as they are high in calories and can affect blood sugar levels.
In addition to sweeteners, it's crucial to use fresh and organic ingredients whenever possible. Organic ingredients are free of harmful chemicals and pesticides that can harm your health over time. For instance, ingredients like fresh fruits, herbs, spices, and organic dairy products can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of the drink.
Stay Healthy, Stay Fit!
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information.