Indian Summer Drinks for Healthy As the Indian summer approaches, the sweltering heat can often leave us feeling drained and dehydrated. Luckily, traditional Indian beverages are not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients that promote healthy living. Here’s a detailed look at some popular summer drinks, their ingredients, health benefits, and simple recipes to keep you cool and revitalized. Nimbu Pani (Lemonade)Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice (2-3 lemons)4 cups of waterA handful of fresh mint leaves1-2 tablespoons sugar or honey (to taste)A pinch of black saltHealth Benefits: Nimbu Pani is a classic summer drink in India, known for its refreshing taste and hydrating properties. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity, aids digestion, and helps detoxify the body. The addition of mint not only enhances flavor but also soothes the stomach. Preparation:Nimbu Pani Squeeze the juice of lemons into a pitcher.Add water and stir well.Mix in sugar or honey until dissolved.Add black salt for taste and toss in mint leaves.Serve chilled over ice.aa Aam Panna (Raw Mango Drink)Ingredients: 2 raw mangoes4 cups of water1-2 tablespoons jaggery or sugar (to taste)1 teaspoon cumin powderA pinch of black saltHealth Benefits: Aam Panna is not only delicious but also incredibly refreshing. Raw mangoes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. This drink is known to prevent heatstroke, improve digestion, and keep you energized during hot days. Preparation:Aam Panna Boil the raw mangoes until soft. Peel and mash them.In a blender, combine the mashed mango, water, jaggery or sugar, cumin powder, and black salt.Blend until smooth. Adjust sweetness as needed.Serve chilled, garnished with mint leaves. Chaas (Buttermilk)Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt3 cups water1 teaspoon roasted cumin powderSalt to tasteFresh coriander leaves (chopped)Health Benefits: Chaas is a popular Indian drink that aids in digestion and hydration. It’s a probiotic-rich beverage, making it excellent for gut health. The cooling properties of yogurt help regulate body temperature. Preparation: Buttermilk In a bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth.Add water gradually while continuing to whisk.Mix in cumin powder and salt.Garnish with chopped coriander before serving. Kokum SherbetIngredients: 10-12 kokum (Garcinia indica) fruits4 cups of water2-3 tablespoons sugar or jaggeryA pinch of saltMint leaves (for garnish)Health Benefits: Kokum is known for its cooling properties and is rich in antioxidants. This drink is great for digestion and helps relieve acidity. It also provides hydration and revitalizes the body during hot weather. Preparation: Kokum Sherbet Soak the kokum in warm water for about 30 minutes.Strain the water into a pitcher, discarding the kokum.Add sugar or jaggery and a pinch of salt; stir well.Chill and serve with mint leaves as garnish. Coconut WaterIngredients: 1 fresh coconutOptional: a squeeze of lime and fresh mint leavesHealth Benefits: Coconut water is a natural electrolyte-rich drink, perfect for hydration. It contains potassium and other minerals that replenish lost fluids, making it an excellent choice during the summer. Preparation: Coconut Water Open the coconut to extract the water.Add a squeeze of lime and mint leaves if desired.Serve chilled or over ice. Masala ChaasIngredients: 1 cup yogurt2 cups water1 teaspoon roasted cumin powderSalt to tasteChopped mint and corianderHealth Benefits: Masala Chaas combines the benefits of buttermilk with spices that enhance flavor and digestion. It’s cooling, hydrating, and can help settle an upset stomach. Preparation: Masala Chaas Whisk the yogurt in a bowl until smooth.Gradually add water, stirring continuously.Mix in cumin powder, salt, and chopped herbs.Chill before serving. Watermelon JuiceIngredients: 4 cups watermelon, cubed1 tablespoon lime juiceFresh mint leaves for garnishHealth Benefits: Watermelon is primarily made of water, making it one of the best hydrating fruits. It’s low in calories and packed with vitamins A and C. This juice not only quenches thirst but also provides antioxidants. Preparation: Watermelon Juice Blend the watermelon cubes until smooth.Strain the juice if desired for a smoother texture.Add lime juice and serve chilled with mint leaves. Turmeric Golden MilkIngredients: 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)1 teaspoon turmeric powder1/2 teaspoon ginger powder1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)A pinch of black pepper (optional)Health Benefits: Golden milk is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to turmeric. It supports immunity and is a soothing drink to have in the evening, promoting relaxation. Preparation: Turmeric Golden milk In a saucepan, combine milk, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper.Heat gently, stirring until well mixed.Remove from heat and stir in honey before serving warm. Fruit Infused WaterIngredients: 1 pitcher of waterYour choice of fruits (e.g., lemon, orange, berries)Fresh mint or basil leavesHealth Benefits: Infused water is a great way to enhance hydration with flavors and nutrients from fruits. It encourages increased water intake while providing vitamins and antioxidants. Preparation: Fruit Infused Water Slice fruits and add them to a pitcher of water.Add mint or basil leaves.Let it infuse in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving.