As temperatures soar, it’s essential to keep ourselves hydrated and refreshed. While water is the universal go-to option, sometimes we crave something more flavorful and interesting to sip on. Thankfully, in India, there’s no shortage of regional drinks that not only cool you down but also offer unique and delicious flavors.
Let’s explore the regional drinks from Western India, that is, the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Goa, that locals swear by to beat the summer heat. These regions get very hot in summers, and the people here rely on the tried-and-tested local beverages to keep cool in the blistering heat.
Maharashtra
Starting with Maharashtra, this state has an array of cooling beverages to choose from.
Maharashtra is known for its delicious Aam Panna, which is a cooling drink made from raw mangoes, sugar, mint leaves, and spices. It is rich in vitamin C and is known to boost immunity. Raw mangoes are peeled, boiled, and blended into a smooth paste. The paste is then mixed with sugar or jaggery syrup, mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, and black salt. This mix is then cooled and served chilled. It is the perfect drink to beat the summer heat and is also an excellent digestive.
Sol Kadi is another popular drink from Maharashtra, made from kokum, coconut milk, and spices. Kokum is a fruit that is only found in coastal regions of India and has a sour taste. Traditionally, it is used in curries, but it makes an excellent summer drink. The kokum is soaked in water for a few hours, then strained and mixed with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, green chili, and coriander. Sol Kadi is cooling, aids digestion, and helps prevent dehydration.
Another favorite is kokum sherbet, which is made from the kokum fruit and is known for its digestive properties.
Gujarat
Gujarat, known for its vibrant culture and delicious food, also has its share of thirst-quenching drinks.
Aamras, made from pureed mangoes, are another favorite that’s enjoyed throughout the state. And let’s not forget buttermilk, a staple drink in many households, which is made from yogurt and is perfect for keeping the body cool and hydrated.
Chaas is a famous drink from Gujarat, also known as buttermilk. It is made by blending yogurt, water, and some spices, including roasted cumin powder and black salt. Chaas is an excellent way to stay hydrated during hot weather, as it is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. It is low in fat and calories, aids digestion, and refreshes the body.
Sattu Sharbat is a drink that originated in Bihar but is now popular in Gujarat too. It is made with a roasted gram flour called sattu, mixed with water, lemon juice, and spices. Sattu contains essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and iron, making it an ideal drink for summer when the body needs more energy to stay active. Sattu Sharbat is also known for its cooling properties, which make it an excellent drink to combat heat exhaustion.
Rajasthan
The desert state of Rajasthan is no stranger to hot weather, and its local beverages reflect that.
One of the most popular drinks is chaas, also known as Mattha, which is similar to buttermilk but with added spices. Jaljeera, a tangy drink made with cumin, mint, and tamarind, is also a favorite during the summer months. And for those with a sweet tooth, there's the classic lassi, made from yogurt and sweetened with sugar or honey.
Rajasthan's Ghewar Thandai is a unique drink that is consumed during the festive season of Holi. Ghewar is a crispy round-shaped dessert made from flour and soaked in sugar syrup, while thandai is a milk-based drink flavored with saffron, cardamom, and fennel seeds. It is a cooling and refreshing drink, perfect for the summer heat. Ghewar Thandai is also said to have some health benefits, like improving digestion, boosting immunity, and reducing stress.
Lassi is a popular drink not only in Rajasthan but also in other parts of India. It is made by blending yogurt, water, and sugar with some spices like cumin and cardamom. Lassi is a cooling drink rich in probiotics that aids digestion. It is also a great way to add some protein to the diet for those who are vegetarians.
Goa
Last but not least, we have Goa, known for its pristine beaches and laid-back lifestyle. The state's most famous summer drink is feni, a locally distilled spirit made from cashew or coconut. However, for non-alcoholic options, there's kokum juice, made from the kokum fruit, which is not only refreshing but also has several health benefits. It has a sour taste and is perfect for cooling down the body during the hot season. Kokum juice is also a natural remedy for acidity, constipation, and indigestion.
Goans also enjoy their share of lassi and buttermilk during the hot summer months.
Summer in India is one of the harshest experiences for everyone living in the country. With temperatures soaring over 40°C in many places, people look for ways to cool down and quench their thirst. This is where these regional drinks come in: they offer an invigorating taste while also staying hydrated and revitalized. So, the next time you're in the region during the summer, make sure to try out these regional drinks to stay cool and refreshed!