Reetika Choudhury
Feeling the summer heat settling in? Needless to stay, staying hydrated is crucial to coping with the sweltering heat and maintaining good health, especially when the temperatures are at an all-time high. Our body loses water more quickly due to excessive sweating in such weathers, so instead of reaching for another glass of water, you may also consider exploring the rich variety of traditional Indian summer drinks that will not only quench your thirst but also help your body cool down. As summer arrives, let’s refresh and replenish our bodies with some of the best summer drinks to beat the heat!
Bel Sharbat (Wood Apple Drink)
Bel sharbat is popular during the summer months in India due to its sweetness and tanginess and its ability to cool the body and relieve dehydration. The bel, or wood apple, is a hard, round fruit with a woody exterior that cracks open to reveal a soft, pulpy interior with a sour taste. To make this drink, mix the pulp with sugar or jaggery, water, and a splash of lemon juice. This refreshing drink also improves digestion due to the natural fibers and nutrients found in the pulp. So, the next time the temperature rises, try this refreshing sharbat and discover why it’s a beloved summer cooling staple!
Sattu Sharbat
When it comes to refreshing summer drinks, nothing can beat traditional desi flavors. Sattu sharbat is a specialty from Bihar that keeps your body cool even on the hottest days! Sattu is valued for its cooling properties according to Ayurveda, as it helps regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. To prepare it, mix chickpea flour with water, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of black salt for extra flavor. Prepare a batch of sattu sharbat, and you’ll be beating the heat in no time!
Coconut Water
A refreshing sip of coconut water can instantly lift your spirits! Its subtle sweetness and refreshing taste make it the perfect beverage to beat the summer heat. Plus, it’s a fantastic source of electrolytes. Best of all, it’s calorie-free, unlike many other drinks, and there’s no preparation needed since it’s naturally ready to enjoy. Whenever you feel dehydrated, simply reach for some coconut water and you’ll feel rejuvenated in no time.
Jaljeera
Jaljeera, a beloved street beverage, is a perfect companion on hot summer days. You can enjoy it best when chilled or over ice. Jaljeera is praised for its digestive properties and antioxidant content. Start by mixing roasted cumin seeds, mint, tamarind, and black salt. The invigorating flavor of jaljeera will not only revitalize your taste buds but also help you beat the scorching heat, making each sip of the pale yellow drink a rejuvenating experience!
Aam Panna (Raw Mango Drink)
For centuries, Aam Panna has been a cherished summer tradition in North India. Street vendors line the roadsides, selling the neon green drink from their stalls and ladling it into glasses for parched passersby. Families also prepare large batches at home, sharing the refreshing beverage with friends and neighbors. Begin by boiling and mashing mangoes to make a pulp, then blend with cumin, black salt, sugar, and mint leaves. This concoction perfectly balances sweet and sour flavors, with a hint of spice from the cumin. Each sip of Aam Panna will evoke memories of lazy summer days and the simple joys of childhood.
Lemonade (Nimbu Paani)
Nothing quite quenches your thirst on a sweltering summer day like a chilled glass of lemonade. Lemonade made with freshly squeezed lemon juice helps aid digestion and promote gastrointestinal health. A refreshing and incredibly tasty drink, you can make this beverage by mixing mint leaves, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and water. To add an extra layer of flavor, you can include spices like cumin, black pepper, and black salt. Sipping on a glass of lemonade can uplift your mood and provide a refreshing burst of energy.
Buttermilk (Chaas)
Why miss out on the most sought-after summer drink, our very own chaas, known as buttermilk? It is an amazing curd-based drink that is undoubtedly an Indian favorite! Chaas can help reduce inflammation in the body and even aid weight loss when consumed regularly. To make this drink, start by whisking yogurt until it’s smooth and creamy, then mix it with roasted cumin seeds, mint, coriander, water, and salt. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving and enjoy your chaas!
By indulging in these traditional Indian summer drinks, you can stay hydrated, cool, and refreshed all summer long.
