By Priyanka Deshpande
CNBC-TV18.com
Published April 4, 2024
With temperatures soaring across India and the IMD predicting increased heatwave risks, there's nothing quite as refreshing as indulging in a glass of a cooling beverage.
From sweet and creamy to tangy and spicy, here are 10 traditional drinks that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide respite from the sweltering heat.
A classic Indian summer cooler made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, water, sugar, salt, and sometimes a dash of roasted cumin powder. It's tangy, refreshing, and instantly rejuvenating.
Nimbu Pani
#1
A traditional drink made from raw mangoes, Aam Panna is both flavorful and cooling. It's prepared by boiling raw mangoes, blending the pulp with mint, sugar, and spices like cumin and black salt, and then chilling it.
Aam Panna
#2
This spiced cumin-flavored drink is a popular choice during summers. Made with roasted cumin seeds, mint leaves, tamarind pulp, black salt, and other spices, Jal Jeera provides instant relief from the scorching heat.
Jal Jeera
#3
Originating from Bihar, Sattu Drink is made from roasted gram flour (sattu), water, lemon juice, and salt. It's packed with nutrients, hydrating, and keeps the body cool.
Sattu Drink
#4
A specialty from the Konkan region, Kokum Sherbet is made from the extract of kokum fruit, sugar, salt, and spices. It has a sweet-tangy flavor and is known for its cooling properties.
Kokum Sherbet
#5
A popular drink during Holi and other festivals, Thandai is a rich blend of milk, nuts (like almonds, cashews, and pistachios), poppy seeds, spices (such as cardamom, fennel seeds, and saffron), and sugar. It's not only refreshing but also energising.
Thandai
#6
A specialty from the coastal regions of Maharashtra and Goa, Sol Kadhi is made from coconut milk, kokum extract, green chilies, and garlic. It has a unique flavor profile with a perfect balance of tanginess and spiciness.
Sol Kadhi
#7
A traditional South Indian drink, Panakam is made with jaggery (or sugar), water, ginger, cardamom, and a hint of lemon juice. It's known for its cooling properties and is often prepared during Ram Navami and other festivals.
Panakam
#8
Made from freshly pressed sugarcane, Ganne ka Ras is a popular street drink in India. Often paired with lemon juice and black salt, it's not just hydrating but also revitalising.
Sugarcane Juice (Ganne ka Ras)
#9
A staple in Indian households, Chaas is a savory yogurt-based drink seasoned with salt, roasted cumin powder, and sometimes mint leaves. It's light, refreshing, and aids digestion, making it perfect for hot summer days.
Buttermilk (Chaas)
#10