The biggest challenge this summer isn’t staying hydrated, but it’s keeping your energy levels up while not consuming too many empty sugars. Most soft drinks, fizzy sodas or store-bought energy drinks have a high concentration of sugar and additional sweeteners and flavours which may make them tastier but also tend to make them fattening.
Also Read: The Bitter Reality Of Energy Drinks
You may not be able to make or copy the actual formulation of soft drinks or branded sodas at home, but you can use plenty of seasonal ingredients and simple pantry essentials to make your own version of fizzy, pick-me-ups which will keep you hydrated and keep your energy levels up. Here are some homemade fizzy drinks which you can make at home and replace them with soft drinks
Aamras Soda
Savour the sweet and tangy taste of ripe mangoes with this delightful Aamras Soda. Blend ripe mango pulp with a splash of water until smooth, then strain the mixture to remove any fibres. Mix the mango puree with chilled sparkling water and a squeeze of lime juice for acidity. Sweeten to taste with sugar or honey, then stir well to combine. Garnish with a slice of mango or a sprig of mint for a tropical twist.
Thandai Fizz
You can use instant thandai powder to make this easy, refreshing drink; Soak a mixture of almonds, cashews, pistachios, melon seeds, poppy seeds, and saffron in water overnight to soften. Blend the soaked mixture with milk, sugar, and a pinch of cardamom until smooth. Strain the mixture and mix it with chilled sparkling water for a fizzy and fragrant beverage that's perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying it as a treat.
Kesar Pista Soda
Indulge in the rich flavours of saffron and pistachio with this luxurious Kesar Pista Soda. Soak a few strands of saffron in warm water to release their colour and flavour. Blend pistachios with a splash of milk until smooth, then strain the mixture to remove any solids. Mix the saffron-infused water, pistachio milk, and chilled sparkling water together, adjusting the sweetness with sugar or honey. Serve over ice for a decadent and refreshing drink.
Minty Jaljeera Cooler
Take the classic Jaljeera to the next level with this Minty Jaljeera Cooler. Blend fresh mint leaves with roasted cumin seeds, green chilli, ginger, and a splash of water until smooth. Strain the mixture and mix it with chilled sparkling water. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, a pinch of black salt, and a dash of chaat masala for that authentic Indian flavour. Garnish with mint leaves and serve over ice for a revitalizing and flavorful drink that's perfect for beating the heat.
Kokum Fizz
Kokum Fizz is a tangy and refreshing drink made from kokum, a fruit native to the Indian subcontinent. To make Kokum Fizz, soak dried kokum petals in water until they soften and release their flavour. Strain the mixture and sweeten the kokum syrup with sugar or jaggery to taste. Mix the kokum syrup with chilled sparkling water and stir well. Garnish with a slice of lemon or lime for an extra burst of citrus flavour. This low-calorie drink is perfect for hot summer days or as a welcome refresher after a spicy meal.
Jeera Pani
Jeera Pani, or cumin water, is a traditional Indian drink that's both cooling and digestive. To prepare Jeera Pani, soak roasted cumin seeds in water for a few hours to infuse the flavour. Strain the mixture and mix the cumin-infused water with chilled sparkling water. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of black salt for seasoning. Stir well and serve over ice for a refreshing and fizzy club soda that aids digestion and satisfies your thirst.
Nimbu Masala Soda
Nimbu Masala Soda is a twist on the classic Masala Soda, with the addition of fresh citrus flavours. To make Nimbu Masala Soda, mix equal parts sparkling water and club soda in a glass. Add a generous squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice, followed by a pinch of black salt, roasted cumin powder, and chaat masala. Stir well to combine and garnish with a slice of lemon or lime. Nimbu Masala Soda is a zesty and invigorating drink that's perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.