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With the scorching sun beating down on the country, the days are becoming unbearable. The heat waves have already started blowing in some parts of the nation with people looking for things to find respite from the heat. Besides, the Indian Meteorological Department has warned that the country will witness heat waves from April To June.
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With that said, it is important to stock up the kitchen with summer essentials that provide relief from the heat. With the coming of the summer, people should make a change in their diet and regime and opt for something that will prevent health hazards during the hot summer months. It is vital to include seasonal fruits and vegetables along with ample fluids and cooling foods to prevent dehydration and other related problems.
If you’re wondering what summer essentials you should stock up in your kitchen pantry, this article is here to help you. Take a look at six summer food products that you should have in your pantry:
- Curd
This is a staple in every Indian household and is known for its cooling and probiotic-rich ingredients that offer a number of health benefits. Yoghurt or curd is rich in calcium, vitamin D, and live bacterial cultures that aid in digestion, boost immunity, and maintain good gut health. During summer months, chilled curd-based dishes can be enjoyed like lassi, buttermilk, raita, and others that provide instant relief from the heat. Besides, it offers delicious and nutritious ways to stay hydrated.
- Sattu
It is a traditional flour made from roasted chickpeas and a versatile ingredient that serves as a cooling powerhouse during summer. It is loaded with protein, fibre, and other essential nutrients. Sattu provides instant energy and keeps you full for longer. Sattu can be incorporated in the form of refreshing drinks such as sattu sherbet or savoury dishes like sattu paratha. Including sattu dishes in your summer diet is not only nutritious but also helps to beat the heat.
- Mishri
Also known as rock sugar, mishri is a natural sweetener that is widely used in Indian households, especially during summer. Mishri is less processed and contains trace minerals that provide a slow and steady release of energy. It makes a perfect addition to summer beverages and desserts. You can add a few crystals of mishri to drinks like lemonade or sherbet that not only enhances their taste but also provides refreshing sweetness.
- Mint Leaves
The refreshing aroma and cooling properties of mint leaves make them a quintessential ingredient for Indian summer recipes. They are packed with antioxidants and menthol that help soothe digestive issues, alleviate nausea, and provide instant relief from the heat. You can use fresh mint leaves in cooling beverages like mint lemonade, infused water, or mint tea. Besides, you can also make chutneys out of mint leaves.
- Kokum Concentrate
Kokum is a fruit hailing from the Western Ghats of India. It is known for its tangy and cooling properties. Kokum concentrate is made from dried kokum rind which is a popular ingredient in the summer months of India. It is rich in antioxidants and hydroxycitric acid which aids digestion, reduces acidity, and helps regulate body temperature. It is usually used in refreshing drinks like kokum sherbet or added to curries or dals for a tangy flavour. Make a revitalising beverage by mixing water, sugar, and a pinch of salt with kokum concentrate that will keep you cool throughout the summer.
- Fennel Seeds
Also known as saunf, fennel seeds boast a cooling spice that offers a myriad of health benefits, particularly during summer. Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and essential oils, fennel seeds help in digestion, reduce bloating and freshen breath. It helps alleviate indigestion and provides relief from heat-related discomfort. Include fennel seeds to make cooling beverages like fennel water or add them to tea, salads, curries, and desserts.