Beverages from India That Will Cool You Down

When the heat of summer hits, there’s nothing quite like refreshing beverages to help you cool down. India, with its rich cultural heritage, offers a variety of traditional drinks that are perfect for quenching thirst and beating the heat. Here are some must-try beverages from India that will keep you cool and hydrated.

1. Jaljeera
Jaljeera is a popular Indian drink made from a blend of cumin, mint, and other spices mixed with chilled water. It possesses a tangy and spicy flavor that stimulates the appetite and provides instant relief from the scorching heat. Served with a sprinkle of boondi or mint leaves, Jaljeera is an excellent drink for digestive health.

2. Aam Panna
Aam Panna, a sweet and tangy drink made from raw mangoes, is a quintessential summer refresher. The drink is prepared by boiling raw mangoes and blending them with sugar, mint leaves, and roasted cumin powder. Rich in Vitamin C, Aam Panna not only cools you down but also boosts your immunity during the hot months.

3. Buttermilk (Chaas)
Buttermilk, or Chaas, is a traditional Indian beverage made from churned yogurt. It is typically flavored with spices like cumin, black salt, and coriander, making it incredibly refreshing and nutritious. Buttermilk helps in digestion and prevents dehydration, making it a perfect companion for your daily meals.

4. Lassi
Lassi is a creamy yogurt-based drink that can be enjoyed sweet or savory. Sweet lassi is typically flavored with cardamom and sugar, while savory lassi includes salt and spices. This refreshing drink not only cools you down but also provides probiotics, promoting gut health.

5. Nimbu Pani
Nimbu Pani is India’s version of lemonade, prepared using fresh lime juice, sugar, and water. This simple yet effective cooling drink can be made zestier by adding mint leaves and a pinch of salt. Nimbu Pani is rich in Vitamin C, making it an ideal drink to refresh during hot summer days.

6. Kokum Sherbet
Kokum, a fruit native to the Western Ghats, is known for its sour taste. Kokum sherbet is made by extracting the juice from the dried kokum fruit, mixing it with sugar, and sometimes spices like cardamom. This deep-red beverage is not only delightful on the taste buds but also helps in maintaining body temperature and is a natural coolant.

7. Thandai
Thandai is a traditional drink made with a blend of milk, nuts, and spices, often enjoyed during festivals like Holi. Ingredients typically include almonds, pistachios, cardamom, and saffron. Chilled thandai serves as a delicious way to experience the flavors of Indian spices while keeping cool on a hot day.

8. Piyush
Piyush is a lesser-known beverage made from buttermilk and flavored with saffron, cardamom, and nuts. This ancient drink is creamy, rich in flavor, and perfect for cooling the body. It’s often served as a dessert drink but can be enjoyed anytime, especially during the sweltering summer months.

9. Ragi Malt
Ragi, or finger millet, is a highly nutritious grain. Ragi malt is made by soaking and fermenting ragi flour, mixed with water or milk and sweetened with jaggery. This cooling beverage not only hydrates but also provides essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice during hot days.

As you explore these flavorful and refreshing Indian beverages, you'll find that each one offers a unique taste and health benefits. So, this summer, stay cool and hydrated with these delightful drinks that reflect the vibrant culture of India.