Summers can get very hot, so it's important to drink lots of water to stay healthy and cool. Luckily, Indian food has a lot of cool summer drinks that will not only quench your thirst but also give you important nutrients. Here are some of the best Indian summer drinks to cool off and stay healthy.
1. Nimbu Pani (Lemonade)
Nimbu Pani, also known as Indian lemonade, is a staple summer drink in many Indian households. Made with fresh lemons, water, sugar, and a pinch of salt, it’s a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors. Adding a few mint leaves can enhance its refreshing quality, making it an excellent drink to beat the heat.
Ingredients:
- Fresh lemons
- Water
- Sugar
- Salt
- Mint leaves (optional)
Benefits:
Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, which boosts immunity, while the salt helps replenish electrolytes lost through sweat.
2. Aam Panna
Aam Panna is a delicious and tangy drink made from raw mangoes. It is particularly popular in northern India. This cooling beverage is known for its heat-resistant properties and is a favorite among both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
- Raw mangoes
- Sugar or jaggery
- Black salt
- Roasted cumin powder
- Mint leaves
Benefits:
Raw mangoes are a great source of Vitamin C and iron. This drink helps prevent heat strokes and provides a refreshing boost of energy.
3. Buttermilk (Chaas)
Chaas, or buttermilk, is a light, refreshing yogurt-based drink. It’s often seasoned with spices like cumin, black salt, and coriander leaves, making it a flavorful way to stay hydrated.
Ingredients:
- Yogurt
- Water
- Black salt
- Roasted cumin powder
- Coriander leaves
Benefits:
Buttermilk aids in digestion and helps cool the body. It’s an excellent source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
4. Coconut Water
Coconut water is nature’s energy drink. It’s incredibly hydrating and packed with essential electrolytes. Fresh coconut water is the best, but packaged versions are also available if fresh coconuts are not accessible.
Ingredients:
- Fresh coconut water
Benefits:
Rich in potassium and other electrolytes, coconut water helps maintain the body’s fluid balance. It’s also low in calories and fat.
5. Jaljeera
Jaljeera is a tangy and spicy drink made from a blend of cumin, mint, black salt, and other spices. It’s often served as an appetizer drink and is extremely popular during the summer months.
Ingredients:
- Cumin seeds
- Mint leaves
- Black salt
- Lemon juice
- Water
Benefits:
Jaljeera aids in digestion and provides a cooling effect. The cumin and mint have anti-inflammatory properties and help in detoxifying the body.
6. Lassi
Lassi is a traditional yogurt-based drink from Punjab. It comes in various flavors, from sweet to salty, and even mango-flavored lassi is popular during the summer.
Ingredients:
- Yogurt
- Water or milk
- Sugar or salt
- Cardamom (optional)
- Mango pulp (for mango lassi)
Benefits:
Lassi is rich in probiotics and helps in digestion. It also provides a good amount of protein and calcium, making it a nutritious drink.
7. Sattu Drink
Sattu drink, made from roasted gram flour, is a traditional beverage from Bihar. It’s a natural energy drink and is very filling, making it a great option to start the day.
Ingredients:
- Sattu flour (roasted gram flour)
- Water
- Lemon juice
- Black salt
Benefits:
Sattu is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It helps in cooling the body and provides sustained energy.
8. Sugarcane Juice
Fresh sugarcane juice is a popular street beverage in India. It’s naturally sweet and packed with essential minerals and vitamins.
Ingredients:
- Fresh sugarcane juice
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Ginger (optional)
Benefits:
Sugarcane juice is a great source of glucose, which helps in re-energizing the body. It’s also rich in antioxidants and has diuretic properties, which help keep the kidneys healthy.
9. Kokum Sherbet
Kokum Sherbet is a tangy and sweet drink made from kokum fruit, which is native to the western coast of India. It’s known for its cooling properties and unique flavor.
Ingredients:
- Kokum syrup or dried kokum
- Sugar
- Black salt
- Cumin powder
- Water
Benefits:
Kokum is rich in antioxidants and aids in digestion. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps in cooling the body.
In the scorching summer, staying hydrated is of the utmost importance; these traditional beverages serve this purpose while also providing necessary minerals and a refreshing coolness. You can choose from a range of options to keep yourself cool and rejuvenated, like the tart Aam Panna and the refreshing Nimbu Pani. So, the next time the weather gets hot, quench your thirst with one of these delicious Indian summer drinks and savor the tastes!
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