Summers are here, and we are in that time of the year again when the markets are full of bright yellow mangoes. The pushcarts are back on the road with fresh ganne ka ras, coconut water and all things chilled and refreshing. But if you ask me, it is the time for the ultimate summer quencher - aam panna. Mango is known as the ‘king of fruits’, and there is absolutely no room for debate on this. The majority of mango-lovers are going to win it anyway. Raw or ripe, mangoes are a definite delight! No matter what form or variety it is, mangoes are an essential part of the summer season in India. But did you know about the countless delicious foods and drinks that you can make with mangoes in a jiffy? One such amazing summer cooler is aam panna.
A chilled glass of aam panna is touted to be one of the most popular drinks in India. Not only for its irresistible sweet and tangy flavour, but also for its health benefits. Made of raw mango pulp, cumin, cardamom powder and mint leaves blended together, aam panna is served chilled and can make you slurp in just one sip! But there’s more to it than just that.
Aam panna is known to solve a host of tummy issues. Being an excellent source of pectin fibre, which acts bulk to your stool, aam panna can help bowel movement. It is also extremely rich in antioxidants and Vitamin B and C, as well as niacin that help boost immunity and fight free radicals.
Aam panna is made with raw mango, which according to Ayurveda, is known for its cooling properties, and thus, is a great home remedy for heat strokes. Besides this, the many spices used in making aam panna - including cumin - are known to be incredibly beneficial for digestion. A chilled glass of aam panna, besides quenching your thirst, can help keep stomach issues at bay, besides keeping your body cool and energised. Here’s an easy recipe to make aam panna at home.
Ingredients:
Green raw mangoes - 2
Cumin powder - 2 tsp
Black salt - 1 tsp
Salt - 1 tsp
Sugar - 2 tsp
Handful of mint leaves
Method:
1. Boil raw mangoes in a saucepan.
2. Let it simmer for 10 minutes until it gets soft from inside.
3. Let them cool and then peel them off.
4. Collect the pulp in a bowl.
5. Grind the pulp with some water to make a thick paste of it.
6. Put the paste in a pan and add sugar.
7. Let it cook on the flame till the sugar dissolves completely. Keep stirring.
8. After the sugar has dissolved completely, remove the pan from the fire and add salt and spices. You can also add more spices of your choice. Many people use a bit of chillies as well.
9. Your mango chutney is ready.
10. To make the drink, add the mango chutney to a tall glass of chilled water and mix well. Top with mint leaves and ice right before serving.
This chutney can be used in different dishes including pickles, candies and sandwiches. Pair with some parathas for a quick breakfast too.