Summer is officially here, and with the sun blazing down, many of us are seeking refuge indoors, preferably with the air-conditioner on full blast. In Delhi, the temperature is soaring, often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, and heatwaves are making it even more challenging to step outside. Amidst this scorching heat, staying hydrated and refreshed becomes crucial. Luckily, India offers a variety of traditional summer drinks that not only cool you down but also provide several health benefits. Here are 10 must-try refreshing summer drinks that will help you beat the summer blues.
Lassi has been a beloved summer drink in India for ages. This creamy, yogurt-based beverage originates from North India and is enjoyed by people of all ages. A cold glass of lassi on a hot summer day can be incredibly refreshing. It’s smooth, filling, and can be flavored in numerous ways, from the classic sweet lassi to variations like mango lassi and jeera (cumin) lassi. The probiotics in yogurt also aid in digestion, making it a healthy choice.
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Aam Panna is a delightful drink made from raw mangoes and a blend of spices, giving it a unique tangy and sweet flavor. This drink is particularly popular in the summer months and is known for its cooling properties. It's simple to prepare at home, or you can buy ready-made packets from local stores. Just mix the packet contents with water and ice for an instant refreshment.
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Buttermilk, or chaas, is another traditional summer drink that is both simple and effective in cooling you down. Made from the leftover liquid after churning butter, this dairy-based drink is slightly salty and incredibly refreshing. It's also rich in probiotics, which help with digestion, making it a perfect companion to spicy Indian meals like chole bhature, especially in the sweltering Delhi heat.
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Sharbat is a versatile drink that comes in various fruity flavors. One of the most famous sharbats is RoohAfza, which has been a favorite in Indian households for generations. If RoohAfza isn’t to your taste, you can try other varieties like badam (almond) sharbat or sandalwood sharbat. These drinks are perfect for cooling down after a long day at work or school.
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Kokum sharbat is a traditional drink from the coastal regions of India, made from the kokum fruit. It's packed with antioxidants and has a distinctive tangy flavor. Kokum is known for its digestive benefits and can also aid in weight loss, making it a great option for those looking to stay healthy while cooling off.
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Jal Jeera is a spicy, tangy drink made from cumin, mint, and other spices. It's often used as a digestive aid and is very popular among adults in India. You can find ready-made jal jeera in small bottles at local markets, making it convenient to enjoy this refreshing drink without the hassle of preparation.
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Thandai is a festive drink typically prepared during the Holi festival in North India. Made with sweetened milk, crushed nuts like almonds, cashews, and walnuts, and flavored with saffron, thandai is both energizing and refreshing. It’s the perfect drink to keep you hydrated and energized during the long, fun-filled days of Holi.
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Coconut water is a natural, hydrating drink that is readily available across India. It’s packed with electrolytes and essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Unlike artificial energy drinks, coconut water is a healthy and refreshing alternative, perfect for rehydrating after a workout or a hot day outdoors.
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Bel sharbat, made from the pulp of the bel fruit (wood apple), is a unique drink with a distinct tangy-sweet flavor. This drink is not only refreshing but also aids in digestion, making it a great addition to your summer diet. Its cooling properties are perfect for combating the intense heat of Indian summers.
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Sattu is a lesser-known but incredibly nutritious drink made from roasted gram flour. Mixed with water, sugar, and lemon juice, sattu is a great source of fiber, protein, and vitamins. This simple drink is particularly popular in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh and is perfect for staying energized and cool in the summer heat.
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With Delhi's temperatures soaring and heatwaves becoming a common occurrence, it’s more important than ever to stay hydrated and cool. These traditional Indian summer drinks offer not only refreshment but also various health benefits, making them perfect for the hot months ahead. Whether you prefer the creamy texture of lassi, the tangy kick of aam panna, or the natural sweetness of coconut water, there's a drink for everyone to enjoy. So, beat the summer heat with these delicious and refreshing beverages!
Q1. What are some traditional Indian drinks that help combat the summer heat?
Answer: Traditional Indian drinks that are perfect for beating the summer heat include lassi, aam panna, buttermilk, sharbat, kokum, jal jeera, thandai, coconut water, bel sharbat, and sattu. These drinks not only refresh and hydrate but also offer various health benefits, such as aiding digestion and providing essential nutrients.
Q2. How can I prepare Aam Panna at home?
Answer: To prepare Aam Panna at home, boil raw mangoes until they are soft. Peel and mash the mango pulp, then blend it with water, sugar, black salt, roasted cumin powder, and mint leaves. You can also find ready-made Aam Panna packets at local stores; just mix the packet contents with water and ice for an instant drink.
Q3. Why is coconut water recommended during summer?
Answer: Coconut water is highly recommended during summer because it is a natural hydrating drink packed with electrolytes and essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It helps replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, making it a healthy and refreshing alternative to artificially made energy drinks, especially after physical activities or on hot days.