Indian Beverages You Can Make With Just a Few Ingredients

Indian cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors and aromas, and this extends to its beverages as well. Many traditional Indian drinks can be prepared easily with just a few ingredients, making them perfect for refreshing yourself at home. Here’s a look at some delightful Indian beverages you can make without much fuss.

1. Masala Chai
Masala Chai is a staple in Indian households, offering a perfect blend of tea, spices, and milk. For a simple version, you just need black tea, water, milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon. Boil water, add the tea and spices, then let it simmer before adding milk and sugar to taste. Serve hot for an invigorating experience.

2. Nimbu Pani (Lemonade)
This refreshing drink is perfect for hot days. For Nimbu Pani, all you need are lemons, water, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Squeeze the lemons into a pitcher, add sugar and salt, and mix well. Finally, dilute with water and serve chilled with ice cubes for a refreshing sip.

3. Lassi
Lassi, a popular yogurt-based drink, comes in various flavors. The basic version requires just yogurt, sugar, and water. Mix them in a blender until smooth, adjusting the thickness by adding more or less water. You can also add flavors like mango or rose to elevate your lassi experience.

4. Turmeric Milk (Golden Milk)
This health-boosting drink is made with milk, turmeric powder, and a sweetener of your choice (like honey or jaggery). Heat the milk and stir in turmeric, allowing it to infuse for a few minutes. Sweeten to taste and enjoy this nutritious beverage, especially as a nighttime relaxant.

5. Aam Panna
Aam Panna is a tangy summer drink made with raw mangoes. To prepare it, you’ll need boiled raw mangoes, sugar, salt, and cumin powder. Blend the mango pulp with sugar, salt, and cumin powder, then mix with water. Serve chilled for a refreshing treat that also helps beat the heat.

6. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is another comforting beverage that requires just ginger, water, tea leaves, and sugar or honey. Boil water, add crushed ginger and tea leaves, and let it brew for a few minutes. Strain, sweeten to taste, and enjoy this warming drink that’s perfect for any season.

7. Coconut Water
If you’re looking for something incredibly refreshing, coconut water is a great option. While this beverage is naturally delicious, you can enhance it by adding a squeeze of lime or a pinch of salt. Serve it over ice for a rejuvenating tropical drink.

8. Buttermilk (Chaas)
Buttermilk is a traditional drink known for its cooling properties. To make it, combine yogurt, water, salt, and spices like cumin or coriander in a blender. Blend until frothy, and serve chilled, ideally with a sprinkle of coriander on top for added flavor.

These Indian beverages, made with easy-to-find ingredients, offer a taste of the rich culinary heritage of India. Experiment with them in your kitchen, and enjoy a refreshing drink that’s both simple and satisfying!