India is a land of diverse culinary traditions, and its vibrant beverage culture is no exception. Alongside the well-known favourites like chai and lassi, there exists a fascinating array of forgotten beverages, ancient concoctions that have recently experienced a revival in popularity.
These time-honoured drinks, often steeped in history and culture, offer a unique glimpse into India's culinary heritage while delighting modern palates with their distinct flavours and health benefits. In this article, we embark on a flavourful journey to explore seven remarkable forgotten Indian beverages that have been revived and cherished by today's discerning enthusiasts.
Kanji: A Probiotic Fermented Delight
Let us begin with Kanji, a traditional fermented drink that has its roots in ancient India. Made from black carrots, mustard seeds, water, and salt, Kanji undergoes a natural fermentation process that lends it a tangy and slightly sour flavour. The fermentation not only enhances the taste but also results in the development of beneficial probiotics that aid digestion and promote gut health. With its refreshing and zesty profile, Kanji has gained popularity as a healthy and natural alternative to carbonated beverages.
Sattu Sherbet: Nourishing and Refreshing
Sattu sherbet is an ancient beverage that has long been enjoyed in India, particularly in the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Sattu, a flour made from roasted chickpeas or barley, is mixed with water, lemon juice, and a hint of spices to create a revitalizing drink. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, Sattu sherbet not only cools the body during scorching summers but also provides a nourishing and energizing boost. It has gained popularity as a healthy and refreshing option among urban dwellers seeking a break from artificial beverages.
Aam Panna: The Tangy Elixir of Summers
Aam Panna, a beloved drink from North India, offers a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavours. This refreshing beverage is made from raw mangoes that are boiled, blended, and infused with jaggery or sugar, mint leaves, and spices like roasted cumin and black salt. Aam Panna not only quenches thirst during the sweltering summer months but also provides a rich source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and electrolytes. Its cooling properties make it a sought-after drink, both for its taste and its ability to beat the heat.
Thandai: A Festival of Flavours
Thandai is a traditional beverage associated with the festival of Holi, but its popularity extends far beyond the festivities. This cooling drink is made from a blend of soaked almonds, pistachios, melon seeds, saffron strands, cardamom, rose petals, and milk. The resulting concoction is a fragrant and creamy elixir that soothes the senses and refreshes the body. Thandai is often served chilled, making it a perfect companion to beat the scorching summer heat. Beyond its taste and cooling properties, Thandai is also known to have a calming effect on the mind.
Sol Kadhi: A Tangy Coastal Refresher
Sol Kadhi is a specialty beverage from the coastal regions of Maharashtra and Goa. It is made from kokum, a small purple fruit, and coconut milk. The kokum fruit imparts a vibrant color and a tangy flavour to the drink, while coconut milk adds a creamy texture. Sol Kadhi is not only a refreshing thirst quencher but also aids digestion and acts as a natural coolant. Its unique taste profile, combining tanginess and creaminess, has earned it a fan following beyond its coastal origins.
Bael Sherbet: A Rejuvenating Summer Quencher
Bael Sherbet, derived from the bael fruit, is a rejuvenating drink that has been enjoyed in India for centuries. The fruit is peeled, deseeded, and blended with water, sugar, and a hint of lime juice to create a revitalizing elixir. Bael Sherbet is renowned for its cooling properties, making it a popular choice during hot summer days. The natural sweetness of the fruit, combined with its refreshing flavour, makes it a favoured beverage among those seeking respite from the scorching heat.
Nannari Sherbet: A Herbal Remedy in a Glass
Nannari Sherbet derives its name from the nannari plant, also known as Indian sarsaparilla. The roots of the plant are boiled, strained, and mixed with sugar syrup and lime juice to create a rejuvenating and aromatic drink. Nannari Sherbet is cherished for its cooling properties and is believed to help detoxify the body. Its distinct flavour profile, reminiscent of herbal and earthy notes, makes it a nostalgic favourite among those seeking a taste of bygone days.
Kallu: The Local Indian Alcohol
Kallu, also known as palm wine, is a traditional alcoholic beverage derived from the sap of various species of palm trees. It is popular in tropical regions, including parts of India, where the sap is extracted from the tree's flower bud. The sap is sweet and initially non-alcoholic, but through natural fermentation, it becomes mildly alcoholic. Kallu has a unique flavour profile, with hints of sweetness and tanginess. It is often consumed fresh and is enjoyed for its refreshing qualities. However, it is important to consume Kallu in moderation, as it is an alcoholic beverage.
Conclusion:
India's forgotten beverages represent a treasure trove of flavours, health benefits, and cultural heritage. These ancient drinks, revived for modern palates, offer a glimpse into the country's culinary traditions while delighting taste buds with their unique profiles. From the tangy and probiotic-rich Kanji to the nourishing Sattu Sherbet, each forgotten beverage carries with it a tale of centuries-old wisdom.
As these drinks find their way back into our modern lives, they remind us of the depth and diversity of India's culinary heritage. So, raise a glass and savour the revival of India's forgotten beverages, as they take you on a journey through time and flavour.