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Since we are at the peak of the summer season, it is important to change your diet accordingly. People prefer cool food and natural drinks that will keep them hydrated and cool. Although packaged drinks are readily available, it is always better to have homemade drinks.
There are several summer drinks that can be prepared at home. From lassi, sweet sherbets, ice cream smoothies, and others, you can name many of them. However, most of the drinks contain sugar which can be a problem for some. Although sugary drinks can be tempting, they often lead to unwanted calories and energy crashes. Moreover, if you’re looking to cut down on sugar this season, here is a list of sugar-free summer drinks. Take a look at them:
- Aam Panna
Aam Panna is a beloved way to enjoy raw mangoes which are abundant during the summer. To prepare this tangy and invigorating drink, boil the raw mangoes until they are soft. Once they get cooled, peel and mash the pulp. Then blend the pulp with mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Add cold water and serve chilled. This is a natural coolant that helps prevent heat strokes.
- Buttermilk
Also known as chaas, buttermilk is a traditional beverage made from yoghurt. This is an excellent probiotic drink that helps in digestion and keeps the body cool. To make chaas, all you need to do is whisk yoghurt with water until smooth and add finely chopped coriander leaves, grated ginger, green chillies, and salt. For added flavours, you can temper mustard seeds and curry leaves and add them to it. Serve chilled.
- Coconut Water
If you’re looking for a perfect natural hydrator, then nothing can be better than coconut water. Coconut water is packed with electrolytes and nutrients. Serve chill fresh coconut water and enjoy it straight from the shell or pour it in the glass. There is no need to add sweeteners to the naturally sweet drink and is excellent for rehydration, especially after outdoor activities.
- Jaljeera
This tangy and spicy drink is made from cumin seeds and water. Popular in North India, jaljeera can be made by blending mint leaves, coriander leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, lemon juice, and a pint of hing. Add chilled water to this mixture and allow it to sit for a while so that the flavour melds. Strain and serve cold. This drink aids in digestion.
- Sattu Drink
Hailing from Bihar, the sattu drink is made from roasted gram flour and is a protein-rich beverage. Mix sattu flour with chilled water and add a pinch of salt, roasted cumin powder, lemon juice, and some finely chopped mint leaves. Stir well and serve immediately. This drink is not only refreshing but also nutritious and keeps you full for longer.
- Cucumber Mint Cooler
Summer and cucumbers are synonymous with each other, and the cucumber mint cooler is incredibly hydrating. To make this blend peeled cucumber with a handful of fresh mint leaves, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Strain the mixture and serve it over ice. The drink is light, refreshing, and perfect to beat the summer heat.
- Bael Sherbet
Bael fruit aka wood apple is known for its cooling properties. You can easily make bael sherbet at home by breaking open the fruit and scooping out the pulp. Soak the pulp in water for a few hours and then strain to remove the fibrous part. Add a pinch of black salt and squeeze lemon juice into the strained beverage. This drink is an excellent cooling agent, which helps in digestion and prevents constipation.
- Lemon Ginger Cooler
This is a simple refreshing drink and is perfect for the summer season. To make this, grate some fresh ginger and put it in the hot water. Once the water has cooled strain out the ginger and squeeze fresh lemon juice. For a hint of sweetness, add a few drops of honey. Serve it over ice and enjoy the refreshing taste.
