As the summer season approaches, people across India start looking for ways to beat the heat. While air conditioning and cold showers might offer some relief, nothing beats the refreshing taste of a local summer drink.
Join us on this cool summer adventure as we explore the regional drinks of Central India, including Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh, that locals use to keep themselves hydrated and refreshed.
Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, also known as the "heart of India," is famous for its rich history and diverse culture. The state has a range of flavorful and refreshing summer drinks to offer. Panna, also known as raw mango drink, is a popular drink that is made with green mangoes, sugar, salt, and roasted cumin powder. Another popular drink is sattu ka sharbat, which is made with roasted gram flour, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and water. It is a nutritious drink and is known to provide instant energy and coolness. Jaljeera, a spicy drink made with cumin, coriander, mint, and other spices, is also a favorite among locals. Lassi, a traditional yogurt-based drink that is great for cooling and hydrating the body, is also very popular. And for those in search of something truly out-of-the-ordinary, there is bael sherbet, a tangy and sweet treat crafted from the pulp of the bael fruit.
Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, has a variety of summer drinks that are famous for their cooling properties. Aam panna is a popular drink made with raw mango pulp, sugar, salt, roasted cumin, and mint leaves. It is known to have a cooling effect on the body and is also beneficial for digestion. Thandai, a refreshing drink made with milk, nuts, and spices, is a popular summer drink that is also consumed during festivals such as Holi. Lassi, another well-liked beverage, is consumed extensively throughout the state.
Bihar
Bihar, located in the eastern part of India, is known for its rich heritage and contributions to Indian literature and culture. The state has a humid and hot climate during the summer, which has led to the development of refreshing drinks. One of the most popular drinks is the sweet and sour aam panna, made from raw mangoes, sugar, and spices. Another popular drink is sattu sherbet, made from roasted gram flour, sugar, and water. And for those in search of something truly unique, there is the cooling and delicious sattu drink, which is prepared by combining sattu flour, water, and spices. People in Bihar also rely heavily on thandai and buttermilk to beat the heat.
Jharkhand
Jharkhand, a state located in the eastern part of India, is known for its forests and waterfalls. The state has a rich tribal culture and is famous for its traditional dishes and drinks. Jharkhand offers a range of traditional drinks, such as sattu ka ghol, which is made with sattu (roasted gram flour) mixed with water, lemon juice, pepper, and salt. Kahra is another popular drink that is made with rice flour, water, and sugar and is known to have cooling properties.
Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh, located in central India, is known for its tribal culture and natural beauty and has a hot and humid climate, which has led to the development of various summer drinks that are refreshing and flavorful. Lassi, a popular drink made with yogurt, and bael ka sharbat, made with wood apple pulp, honey, and water, are common summer drinks in the state. Another popular drink is the tangy and refreshing aam panna, made from raw mangoes, sugar, and spices. There's also the refreshing and healthful khatta meetha pani, which is produced by mixing tamarind paste, jaggery, and water.
These regional drinks from Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh are not only delicious but also provide relief from the scorching heat during the summer. These traditional drinks have been passed down from generation to generation and reflect the unique culture and traditions of each state. While these drinks may differ in taste and ingredients, they all serve the same purpose, which is to provide instant refreshment and relief from the summer heat. 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!