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India may have bid adieu to the monsoons but for many locations across the country, this has meant trading in the days of endless damp for ones of muggy heat. Western coast, the end of the rains means dealing with the trials of October heat and while temperatures up north are steadily dropping towards winter climes, the west is busy trying to shake off high temperatures and humid nights.
During this time the atmosphere becomes one of listlessness as people try to keep up with their daily lives while trying to stay cool. And while it's tempting to retreat indoors and wait out the season in air-conditioned comfort, one of the most direct ways to feel refreshed, and hydrated and stay chill (inside and out), is to switch up what you’re eating.
Video Credits: Kitchen Affairs/YouTube
Luckily, most Indian cuisines were designed with heat in mind and every region offers its own dishes and drinks as cooling solutions. So while you’re trying to beat the heat, here’s what you should eat.
Neer Mor:
What chaas and lassi (or buttermilk) is to the northern states, Neer Mor is to South India. This Tamilian drink, also known as Majjiga in Telugu or Sambaram in Malayalam translates to 'water' (Neer) and 'buttermilk' (Mor) in English. Consequently, when combined, it refers to a light, liquid form of buttermilk infused with spices. Made with a tempering of ginger, chillies, curry leaves and coriander, it is a light and refreshing option that helps in keeping the body cool due to its hydrating properties. The buttermilk aids in digestion and provides essential nutrients.
Watermelon Chaat:
It’s no secret that watermelon is good for hydration – water is in the name after all – and every watermelon packs a whopping 92% water. While munching on fresh fruit is always refreshing, you can step it up a level with Watermelon chaat which is a simple mix watermelon cubes, spices like black salt or chaat masala and chopped herbs like mint for extra freshness and flavour. It's also rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice.
Cucumber Raita:
With a 96% water content and a natural crunch, cucumber is right up there with some of the most refreshing ingredients out there. But pair it with some cooling yogurt and its a match made in heaven. Cucumber raita is a tasty yogurt-based side dish with cucumber, mint, and spices. Cucumber's high water content helps in keeping you hydrated, while the yogurt aids in digestion.
Pakhala:
The whole world is on a fermentation binge lately, but Odisha has known the secret benefits of the technique for centuries. Pakhala is a traditional Odia dish featuring cooked rice that’s lightly fermented rice in water. It's a wonderful choice for hot days because the fermentation process enhances its digestibility, and the water content helps keep you hydrated.
Sol Kadhi:
You’ll probably spot a bowl or glass of this pretty pink liquid alongside seafood dishes in places along the Konkan coast. Made from a mix coconut milk and kokum and often dressed with coriander leaves this drink is both refreshing and helps in cooling the body. This is down to the kokum which has natural cooling properties and offers a tangy and delicious refreshment.
Thayir Sadam:
Across south India, curd rice is a go-to meal, both as a comfort food and for cooling down on a hot day. Also known locally as Thayir Sadam is a South it’s a simple combination of fresh curd and rice with is flavoured with a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves and chillies. People also sometimes add fresh vegetables or pomegranate seeds for additional flavour and the probiotics in the yoghurt offer a soothing, cooling dish.
Nannari Sharbat:
This drink made from the roots of the Indian Sasparilla plant is known as a medicinal tonic that helps cool the body from within. It has an astringent taste and as such is usually paired with palm sugar and lime to make the drink more palatable. It’s more prevalent in south India, especially places like Kerala but can be found across the country.
