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What to Drink in Summer?
As the sun blazes and temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like the cool relief of a refreshing summer drinks. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, picnicking in the park, or hosting a backyard barbecue, summer drinks are an essential part of staying hydrated and beating the heat. From fruity mocktails to icy coolers, the options are endless when it comes to crafting delicious beverages that capture the essence of summer.
Embracing Seasonal Flavors
One of the joys of summer drinks is the abundance of fresh, seasonal ingredients that add vibrant colors and flavors to every sip. From juicy watermelons and ripe berries to tangy citrus fruits and fragrant herbs, summer provides a cornucopia of produce to inspire your drink creations. Whether you’re blending up a tropical smoothie, infusing water with cucumber and mint, or squeezing fresh lemonade, there’s something uniquely satisfying about savoring the flavors of the season in every glass.
From Mocktails to Cocktails
While alcoholic cocktails are a staple of summer gatherings, non-alcoholic mocktails are equally popular for those looking to enjoy refreshing beverages without the buzz. Mocktails offer all the flavor and flair of their spirited counterparts, with creative combinations of juices, syrups, herbs, and sparkling water. Whether you’re sipping on a virgin mojito, a fruity punch, or a sparkling spritzer, mocktails are perfect for all ages and occasions, providing a refreshing alternative that’s as fun to make as it is to drink.
Stay Cool and Hydrated
Beyond their delicious taste, summer drinks play a vital role in keeping us cool and hydrated during the sweltering months. With their high water content and electrolyte-rich ingredients, many summer beverages are not only refreshing but also help replenish fluids lost through perspiration, keeping us energized and revitalized even on the hottest days. From coconut water and iced teas to hydrating smoothies and fruit-infused waters, there’s no shortage of options for staying cool and hydrated all summer long.
Best Indian Summer Drinks:
Nimbu Pani (Lemonade): A classic Indian summer cooler made with lemon juice, water, sugar, salt, and sometimes flavored with mint or spices like cumin.
Aam Panna: A refreshing drink made from raw mangoes, sugar, salt, and spices like roasted cumin powder and black pepper. It’s known for its tangy and sweet flavor.
Lassi: A traditional Punjabi drink made with yogurt, water, sugar, and flavored with either fruit (like mango or strawberry) or savory spices (like cumin or mint). It’s served chilled and is very refreshing.
Jal Jeera: A popular North Indian drink made with water, mint leaves, lemon juice, black salt, cumin powder, and sometimes tamarind pulp. It has a tangy and spicy flavor.
Sattu Drink: Originating from Bihar, sattu is roasted gram flour that’s mixed with water, lemon juice, salt, and sometimes sweetened with sugar or flavored with herbs like mint.
Coconut Water:
Not a prepared drink but widely consumed across India for its hydrating properties. It’s the clear liquid found inside young green coconuts and is naturally refreshing.
Kokum Sharbat: Popular in Maharashtra and Goa, kokum sharbat is made from kokum fruit syrup, water, sugar, and sometimes flavored with spices like cumin or ginger. It has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
Sol Kadhi: Another coastal favorite from Maharashtra and Goa, sol kadhi is made from coconut milk, kokum, green chilies, and garlic. It’s known for its cooling properties and is often consumed after meals.
Buttermilk:
While buttermilk’s traditional applications remain beloved by home cooks and professional chefs alike, modern culinary innovators continue to find new and creative ways to showcase its unique flavor and texture.
Sharbat: Sharbat is a traditional South Asian beverage known for its refreshing and thirst-quenching qualities. Typically made by diluting fruit extracts or floral syrups with water, ice, and sometimes milk, sharbat comes in a variety of flavors such as rose, sandalwood, lemon, and mango. It’s often sweetened with sugar or honey and may be garnished with fresh fruit, herbs, or nuts.
Fruit Juices:
Fruit juices are flavorful and refreshing beverages made by extracting the liquid from fresh fruits. They come in a variety of flavors, including orange, apple, grape, pineapple, and more. Fruit juices are often consumed for their natural sweetness, vitamins, and hydration benefits. They can be enjoyed on their own, mixed with other juices or water.
Join Us on a Refreshing Journey:
In this series, we’ll explore a variety of summer drinks to suit every taste and occasion. From classic favorites to innovative twists, we’ll share recipes, tips, and inspiration to help you create your own signature summer sips. Whether you’re hosting a poolside party, enjoying a lazy afternoon in the sun, or simply craving a cool and refreshing pick-me-up, join us as we embark on a journey to discover the joys of summer drinks. Cheers to a season filled with sunshine, relaxation, and endless refreshment!