With the blazing summer sun overhead, South India presents a variety of traditional beverages to keep you refreshed and hydrated. These drinks not only offer respite from the heat but also deliver a burst of distinct flavors.
Here are five quintessential South Indian summer drinks to quench your thirst:
Neer Moru (Spiced Buttermilk)
Neer Moru, also known as spiced buttermilk, is a popular summer cooler in South India. Made from churned yogurt or buttermilk mixed with water, Neer Moru is seasoned with green chilies, ginger, and curry leaves, and tempered with mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. This savory drink not only cools the body but also aids digestion, making it a perfect accompaniment to spicy South Indian meals.
Panagam
Panagam is a traditional South Indian drink made from jaggery, and water, and flavored with ginger, cardamom, and dried ginger powder. It is believed to have cooling properties and is often prepared during festivals like Ram Navami and during the hot summer months. Panagam is not only refreshing but also acts as a natural energizer due to the presence of jaggery, which is rich in iron and other essential minerals.
Nannari Sherbet
Nannari Sherbet is a sweet and aromatic summer drink made from the roots of the Nannari plant, also known as Indian Sarsaparilla. The roots are boiled and infused with water, sugar, and sometimes lemon juice to create a refreshing beverage. Nannari Sherbet is known for its cooling properties and is believed to purify the blood and detoxify the body, making it a popular choice during the sweltering summer months.
Aam Panna
Although Aam Panna is more commonly associated with North India, its refreshing taste and cooling properties have made it a favorite summer drink in South India as well. Made from raw mangoes, and sugar, and flavored with roasted cumin powder, black salt, and mint leaves, Aam Panna is known for its tangy and sweet flavor profile. This drink not only helps beat the heat but also replenishes essential electrolytes lost due to sweating.
Jigarthanda
Originating from Madurai in Tamil Nadu, Jigarthanda is a unique and indulgent summer beverage that is sure to cool you down on a hot day. This drink is made from milk, almond gum (badam pisin), sarsaparilla syrup (nannari sharbat), and ice cream. Jigarthanda has a rich and creamy texture with a hint of floral sweetness from the nannari syrup. It is often garnished with chopped nuts and served as a refreshing dessert drink.
South India offers a diverse range of summer drinks that not only provide relief from the sweltering heat but also tantalize the taste buds with their unique flavors and aromas. These beverages are a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region and are a must-try for anyone looking to beat the summer heat in style.
