India is a tropical country. At certain times of the year, the heat can be unbearable, draining the body of energy, nutrients, and hydration. But even though the sultry summers come with soaring temperatures, Indians beat the heat with some yum drinks.
These drinks are prepared using seasonal fruits or milk preparations and are not just condiments. Their taste ranges from sweet, hot to spicy, they are not just tasty, they have a range of health benefits associated with them.
Today, We will talk about 5 popular traditional drinks from different regions of India.
1. Aam Panna
Aam Panna is a raw mango sherbet that hails traditionally from the western Indian state of Gujarat, but is lovingly relished in all Indian homes. Raw mangoes are boiled and spices like salt, rock salt, cumin powder, crushed coriander and mint leaves. This drink intake prevents from heat strokes and regulates the body temperatures.
2. Chhaach
Chhaach or buttermilk is the leftover salty liquid after the butter is extracted from the homemade cream. It is a coolant and a probiotic that maintains gut health in summers when chances of contamination and infections are high.
3. Thandai
It is a tradition to have this drink during the festival of Holi or Maha Shivratri. This drink from Uttar Pradesh is prepared using milk, kesar (saffron strands), spices, and dry fruits.
4. Falooda
This drink from Bengal is also a delicious beverage/ dessert. Sabja seeds( basil seeds), Falooda Sev, rose syrup, and sugar are added to milk and topped with dry fruits for a rich flavor.
5. Lassi
A very popular yogurt drink from the Northern state of Punjab. This drink replenishes the body with lost electrolytes and keeps the body cool in the summer heat. Lassi is prepared when Yogurt is thoroughly blended with sugar, ice, and some water (if needed).
And you have guests arriving at home? To make this drink a little more interesting, you can prepare this simple yet refreshing drink using fruits like mangoes, bananas, kiwis and more. And how about having this drink the royal way?
Shahi lassi recipe
Ingredients
- 1 big cup yogurt(250 gms)
- 4-5 teaspoons sugar( or as per taste)
- Finely cut 2 each-almonds, cashews, pistachios
- ½ tsp Elaichi(cardamom) powder
- 3-4 Kesar(saffron) strands
- Ice cubes
Method
Mix all ingredients in a blender. Do not over blend as the Lassi will become buttery. Garnish with almond slivers. Enjoy chilled!!
