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As the scorching heat of summer arrives, there's nothing more refreshing than a chilled and invigorating beverage to quench our thirst and provide relief from the sweltering temperatures. In the realm of revitalising summer drinks, one name stands out: Variyali Sharbat. This aromatic and delightful concoction, also known as fennel seed sherbet, has been cherished for centuries as a perfect summer elixir.
With its unique blend of flavours and numerous health benefits, variyali sharbat has become a go-to beverage for beating the heat and rejuvenating the body. So, let's explore why it has become the quintessential summer drink for many and try the recipe at home to find out.
What Is Variyali Sharbat?
Variyali sharbat, also known as fennel seed sherbet, is a traditional Indian summer drink that is loved for its refreshing and cooling properties. It is made by infusing fennel seeds in water and adding sweeteners and flavours to create a delicious and revitalising beverage.
Variyali sharbat is particularly popular in the western state of Gujarat, India, where it is often enjoyed during the scorching summer months to beat the heat and stay hydrated. It is commonly found in street food stalls, restaurants, and households throughout the state.
This refreshing beverage has gained popularity beyond Gujarat and can be found in various parts of India. It has also become a popular choice for individuals seeking natural and healthy alternatives to sugary drinks or carbonated beverages. The combination of fennel seeds, sweetness, and a hint of tanginess in variyali sharbat makes it a delightful and soothing drink to enjoy on hot summer days.
Health Benefits Of Variyali Sharbat In Summer
Variyali sharbat offers several health benefits, especially during the summer months when hydration and cooling are essential. Here are some of the potential health benefits:
Hydration
Staying adequately hydrated is crucial during the summer months, and variyali sharbat can be a refreshing and effective way to achieve that. The drink is primarily water-based, helping to replenish fluids in the body and combat dehydration. Proper hydration supports various bodily functions, including regulating body temperature, lubricating joints, and promoting healthy digestion.
Lemon juice is commonly added to variyali sharbat for its refreshing taste and potential health benefits. It is a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant. Lemon juice may also aid digestion and help balance pH levels in the body.
Digestive Aid
Fennel seeds, the star ingredient of Variyali Sharbat, have long been revered for their digestive properties. They contain compounds like anethole, which can help relax the digestive muscles and alleviate issues such as bloating, indigestion, and flatulence. Consuming variyali sharbat can provide relief from digestive discomfort, making it an excellent choice after a heavy meal or during periods of digestive distress.
Cooling Effect
The natural cooling properties of fennel seeds make variyali sharbat a perfect drink to beat the summer heat. Fennel seeds have a cooling effect on the body and can help lower body temperature by providing a soothing sensation and relieving heat-related discomfort.
This makes the drink a popular choice to stay refreshed and cool during hot weather. Rose water is often used to add a floral and aromatic note to variyali sharbat. While it may not contribute significant nutritional value, it is known for its calming properties and potential benefits for skin health.
Antioxidant-rich
Fennel seeds are packed with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, have been associated with potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, supporting immune function, and preventing chronic diseases. Moreover, saffron, a prized spice, is sometimes added to variyali sharbat in small quantities, which contains antioxidants and may have mood-enhancing properties.
Nutritional Profile
Variyali sharbat can contribute to your nutritional intake during the summer. Fennel seeds are a good source of essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fibre. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining overall health, supporting immune function, and promoting healthy digestion.
Relaxation and Sleep Aid
Fennel seeds have mild sedative properties and can help promote relaxation and better sleep. Consuming variyali sharbat before bedtime may contribute to a calmer mind and improved sleep quality, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
How To Make Variyali Sharbat At Home?
Making this drink at home is relatively simple and requires only a few ingredients. Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing this refreshing summer drink:
Variyali Sharbat
Ingredients
• 1 cup fennel seeds (variyali)
• 4 cups of water
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
• Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
• Ice cubes for serving
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Method
• In a dry skillet or pan, lightly roast the fennel seeds over low heat for a few minutes until they become fragrant. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Roasting enhances the flavour of the seeds.
• Once roasted, remove the fennel seeds from the heat and let them cool to room temperature.
• Transfer the cooled fennel seeds to a blender or spice grinder and grind them into a fine powder. This ground fennel powder will be the base for your sharbat.
• In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the ground fennel powder to the boiling water and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavours of the fennel to infuse into the water.
• After simmering, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solid particles. Discard the leftover fennel residue and let the liquid cool down.
• Once the liquid has cooled, add sugar to it and stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences.
• If desired, squeeze the juice of one lemon into the sharbat for a tangy twist. Stir well to incorporate the lemon juice.
• Transfer the prepared sharbat to a glass bottle or container and refrigerate for a couple of hours to chill it thoroughly.
• To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled Variyali Sharbat over the ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added freshness and aroma.
• Stir the sharbat before serving to ensure that the flavours are well-distributed. Enjoy the Variyali Sharbat as a refreshing summer drink to beat the heat.
Remember, you can adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the sharbat by varying the amount of sugar and lemon juice according to your preference. Feel free to experiment with the flavours by adding rose water or saffron and making it your own. Cheers to a homemade glass of cooling variyali sharbat!
