As summer temperatures soar in India, the vibrant streets come alive with the aromas and flavours of refreshing beverages that help beat the heat. From bustling cities to small towns, the country boasts a rich tapestry of street drinks that offer a delightful respite during the scorching summer months.
Nimbu Pani (Lemonade)
A quintessential Indian summer drink, it is a tangy and zesty concoction made with freshly squeezed lemons, water, sugar, and a pinch of salt. It is renowned for its ability to cool and hydrate the body, making it a favourite choice for battling the sweltering heat. It is often garnished with mint leaves, crushed ginger, or a sprinkle of chaat masala for an extra kick.
Lassi
Hailing from the land of Punjab, it is a creamy and frothy yogurt-based drink that provides instant refreshment. This traditional drink is available in sweet or savoury variations. It is flavoured with cardamom, saffron, or rose water, while the savoury version, known as salted lassi, is seasoned with cumin and mint. It is often topped with a dollop of malai (clotted cream) for added indulgence.
Aam Panna (Raw Mango Cooler)
It is a popular summer drink made from raw mangoes. This tangy and sweet beverage is prepared by boiling and blending raw mango pulp with mint leaves, sugar, and spices like cumin and black salt. It not only offers a refreshing taste but is also believed to have a cooling effect on the body and aids digestion.
Jaljeera
It is a spiced and tangy drink that is cherished for its ability to quench thirst and stimulate the appetite. It is prepared by blending mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, tamarind pulp, and other spices with water. This zingy concoction is often garnished with boondi (crispy gram flour pearls) and served chilled, making it a popular choice during scorching summer days. You can also buy Pani Puri masala online.
Sugarcane Juice
It is a natural and revitalizing drink that provides instant energy and hydration. Street vendors extract the juice from fresh sugarcane stalks, often adding a dash of lime or ginger for added flavour. This sweet elixir is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a sought-after beverage across India.
Falooda
It is a delightful and cooling dessert-like drink that originated in Persian cuisine but has become immensely popular in India. It is a layered drink consisting of rose-flavoured milk, sweet basil seeds (sabja), vermicelli noodles, and a scoop of ice cream or kulfi. It offers a perfect blend of flavours and textures, making it a favourite summer indulgence for many.
Shikanji
It is also known as shikanjvi or shikanjbeen, is a traditional Indian lemonade with a spicy twist. It is made by mixing freshly squeezed lemon juice with water, sugar, and a blend of spices such as roasted cumin powder, black salt, and black pepper. You can also buy authentic Shikanji powder online.
Kokum Sherbet
Popular in the coastal regions of India, kokum sherbet is a vibrant and tangy drink made from the juice of kokum fruit. The deep purple-hued sherbet is sweetened with jaggery or sugar and infused with a hint of spices like cumin and ginger.
Sattu Drink
It is a nutritious flour made from roasted chickpeas, and it is a wholesome and nourishing summer beverage. It is mixed with water, lemon juice, salt, and sometimes with mint leaves or roasted cumin powder to create a refreshing and protein-rich drink. It is popular in the northern parts of India and is known for its ability to energize and cool the body.
Jaljeera Soda
It is a carbonated and spicy drink that combines the flavours of Jaljeera with chilled soda water. It is a fizzy and invigorating beverage that instantly revitalizes and quenches thirst. It is often served with ice cubes and garnished with fresh mint leaves, providing a cooling and refreshing experience.
Conclusion
India’s summer street drinks are a testament to the country’s diverse culinary heritage. From the tangy and refreshing Nimbu Pani to the creamy indulgence of Lassi, and from the cooling sweetness of Falooda to the spicy zing of Jaljeera, these popular beverages offer a delightful way to beat the summer heat. So, the next time you venture out on the streets of India during the scorching summer months, be sure to explore and savour these iconic street drinks that showcase the rich flavours and traditions of the country.