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Millions of Muslims observe fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan, a holy month in Islam. It is the time to practice self-discipline and introspect your actions to improve yourself. To stay hydrated during this period is essential to perform daily tasks and engage in spiritual practices. When the fast breaks at Iftar, restoring lost fluids is crucial to sustaining health and energy.
Traditional drinks offer vital nutrients, natural sugar for energy, and cooling properties that aid in re-establishing the body's balance. These drinks are a healthier option compared to commercial soft drinks because they are made mostly of natural components such as fruits, flower petals, herbs, and unrefined sugars.
Rose Sharbat
This drink is known for its ruby red colour, mild floral aroma and refreshing flavour. To make this sharbat first boil water and then add rose syrup or dried rose petals. Then let the flavours develop by letting the mixture simmer for some time. After that, turn down the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then strain it and add sugar to taste, making sure it dissolves thoroughly. Serve chilled with ice cubes and garnish with dried rose petals.
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Gur ka Sharbat
Gur ka sharbat, or jaggery drink is one of the oldest sweet drinks in South Asian countries. This drink is packed with iron and other essential minerals which help sustain energy levels while fasting. To make it, dissolve the jaggery in warm water, then add some lemon juice and basil seeds for extra cooling. To enhance the flavour and nutritional nutritional content you can also add a pinch of black salt, fresh mint leaves or ginger.
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Angoori Sharbat
Also known as grape sharbat, it is a sweet and tangy beverage produced by combining grape syrup with water. It is rich in antioxidants and also offers vital vitamins and minerals that instantly increase energy levels. To prepare it, simply blend fresh grapes with water and strain the mixture to get the juice. Then add lemon juice, sugar or honey to the juice. Serve chilled with ice cubes. Garnish with whole grape grapes or mint leaves.
Aam Panna
Made from raw mangoes, aam panna is a popular summertime beverage in India known for its sweet and tangy flavour. It is high in vitamin C and other minerals, which help to boost immunity and help you stay hydrated. To make this sharbat, boil raw mangoes until they are soft, then remove the pulp and combine it with black salt, sugar or honey, and cumin powder. Then add chilled water to adjust the thickness until the desired consistency is reached. Garnish it with fresh mint leaves and lemon wedges.
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Pomegranate Sharbat
This sharbat is packed with antioxidants and vitamins which have a beautiful red colour and a sweet-sour flavour profile. The process of making this drink is simple; first, extract the juice from fresh pomegranate seeds by blending them with a little water (if needed), then, strain it. Then add sugar and a little lemon or lime juice. You can also add rose water and saffron for aroma. Garnish it with fresh mint or pomegranate seeds.
Shikanji
Shikanji, also referred to as Indian lemonade, is a popular post-fast hydration beverage during Ramadan. This beverage is a unique blend of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavours. To prepare this drink combine lemon juice, water, sugar, and spices. For freshness add mint leaves or basil seeds. It also offers several general health advantages which include aiding in the body's detoxification, assisting in digestion, and also keeping one hydrated and energetic.
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