How to Make Fresh Indian Herbal Beverages at Home

Fresh Indian herbal beverages are not only refreshing but also packed with numerous health benefits. Making these drinks at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that your beverages are free from preservatives. Below are some popular Indian herbal drinks and simple recipes to try at home.

1. Ginger Tea (Adrak Chai)

Ginger tea is a popular beverage in India, known for its warming properties and health benefits, particularly in aiding digestion.

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 inches fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 cups water
  • 1-2 tablespoons sugar or honey (optional)
  • 1-2 tea bags or 1 tablespoon loose tea leaves
  • Milk (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Boil water in a saucepan.
  2. Add the grated ginger and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Add the tea leaves or tea bags and sugar/honey to taste.
  4. If you like, add milk and bring it to a boil again.
  5. Strain the tea into cups and enjoy your homemade ginger tea!

2. Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)

Turmeric milk is an ancient Ayurvedic drink known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1-2 teaspoons honey or jaggery (optional)
  • 1 pinch black pepper
  • Cardamom for flavor (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the milk in a saucepan.
  2. Add turmeric powder, black pepper, and cardamom, stirring well.
  3. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
  4. Sweeten with honey or jaggery as desired.
  5. Strain into a cup and savor the warming effects of this beverage.

3. Mint Cooler (Pudina Cooler)

Mint cooler is a refreshing drink, perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2-3 cups water or soda
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Blend mint leaves, sugar/honey, and lemon juice with a little water to make a paste.
  2. Strain the mixture into a jug.
  3. Add the remaining water or soda and mix well.
  4. Serve over ice cubes for a refreshing drink.

4. Aam Panna (Raw Mango Drink)

Aam Panna is a traditional summer drink made from raw mangoes, known for its cooling properties.

Ingredients:

  • 2 raw mangoes
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 3-4 cups water

Instructions:

  1. Boil the raw mangoes until they are soft, then peel and mash them.
  2. Add sugar, roasted cumin powder, and salt to the mashed mango.
  3. Mix well and add water to get your desired consistency.
  4. Chill and serve, garnished with more roasted cumin if desired.

5. Herbal Lemonade (Nimbu Pani)

This invigorating drink combines the goodness of lemon with various herbs.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Fresh mint and basil leaves
  • 4 cups water

Instructions:

  1. Mix lemon juice, sugar, salt, and chopped mint and basil leaves in a jug.
  2. Add water and stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Serve chilled with ice cubes for a refreshing herbal lemonade.