Tracing South India Through 7 Lesser-Known Beverages

By Aanchal Mathur

South India is renowned for its delicious food and hot spices. The state also takes pride in a large variety of delectably refreshing drinks. Here are some of the lesser-known drinks you must not miss. 

Kambu Koozh

This high-protein porridge or beverage is widely available in Tamil Nadu. It can be consumed as a thick porridge or a loose beverage and is made with finger millet, but can also be made with bajra/kambu. 

vidhyashomecooking.com

Thari Kanji

In Muslim homes, it's typical to break the fast with dates and the customary thari kanji, or semolina porridge - a conventional semolina dish that has been roasted. Its origins are tied to the iftar meal.  

thebigsweettooth.com

Sambharam

This summertime favourite of Keralites is produced by blending diluted buttermilk with crushed bird's eye chilies, shallots, curry leaves, ginger, and salt.

Panakam

Also known as panaka in Kannada, this summer drink is brewed with jaggery, dry ginger, and cardamom. It is frequently made during Ram Navami and Narasimha Jayanthi.

Nannari Sherbat

In the South, nannari (Indian sarsaparilla) extract is used to make this sherbet.Sherbet is a widely consumed beverage that may be created from any fruit or herb.  

Avil Milk

A beverage from Kerala, Aval milk is made with Aval, also known as poha or beaten rice flakes, ripe bananas, milk of any kind, and nuts. 

taystit.co

Jigarthanda

Jigarthanda is a chilled beverage prepared from milk, almond pisin, khoya, and nannari root syrup, The name is made up of the Hindi words jigar and thanda, which mean "to cool the heart."

jilljilljigarthanda.com