As temperatures soar across India during the summer, staying cool and hydrated becomes a priority. While modern beverages dominate the shelves, traditional Indian drinks like jaljeera continue to win hearts with their refreshing taste and remarkable health benefits. A tangy, spiced beverage made with cumin (jeera), mint, black salt, and other cooling ingredients, jaljeera is more than just a thirst-quencher, it’s a digestive tonic and summer essential.
Here are 10 impressive benefits of drinking jaljeera during the hot season:
1. Excellent Summer Cooler
Jaljeera acts as a natural coolant. Ingredients like mint and cumin have inherent cooling properties that help regulate body temperature, making this drink perfect for scorching summer days.
2. Boosts Digestion
Rich in digestive spices like cumin, black salt, and ginger, jaljeera stimulates the secretion of digestive enzymes. It helps reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion, especially after heavy meals.
3. Prevents Dehydration
Jaljeera is typically served with chilled water or soda, and when combined with salt and spices, it helps retain electrolytes and prevent dehydration.
4. Aids in Detoxification
Mint and coriander in jaljeera help flush out toxins from the body. Cumin, too, has mild diuretic properties, promoting natural detoxification through urine.
5. Rich in Antioxidants
The spices used in jaljeera, particularly cumin and amchur (dry mango powder), are rich in antioxidants. These compounds help fight free radicals and support overall health.
6. Supports Weight Loss
Cumin is known to aid in metabolism and fat reduction. Drinking jaljeera before meals may help suppress appetite and assist in weight management.
7. Improves Iron Levels
Black salt and cumin are good sources of iron. Regular intake of jaljeera can help people with mild iron deficiencies improve their hemoglobin levels.
8. Helps with Nausea and Acidity
The tangy and slightly pungent taste of jaljeera helps alleviate feelings of nausea. Its alkaline ingredients also help neutralize excess stomach acid.
9. Enhances Immunity
The ingredients used in jaljeera have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption helps boost immunity, keeping seasonal ailments at bay.
10. Stimulates Appetite
If the heat has dulled your appetite, a glass of jaljeera can help. The sharp flavors and digestive benefits of this drink stimulate taste buds and increase hunger.
Traditional Jaljeera Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons cumin seeds (roasted)
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1 tablespoon dry mango powder (amchur)
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1 tablespoon black salt (or to taste)
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1 teaspoon ginger powder or fresh ginger
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A handful of fresh mint leaves
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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Juice of 1 lemon
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2 cups cold water or soda
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Optional: a pinch of asafoetida (hing), boondi for garnish
Instructions:
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Grind the Spices: In a mixer or mortar-pestle, grind roasted cumin seeds, black salt, black pepper, dry mango powder, ginger, and mint leaves into a fine paste or powder.
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Mix: Add the mixture to cold water or soda and stir well.
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Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze in the lemon juice for extra tang.
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Strain (Optional): You can strain the liquid for a smoother texture.
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Serve Chilled: Garnish with a few boondi pearls and mint leaves. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Incorporating jaljeera into your summer routine is a simple yet powerful way to stay cool and support your health. Easy to prepare and full of beneficial herbs and spices, this age-old drink is a testament to India’s traditional wisdom. So, skip the sugary sodas this season and pour yourself a glass of jaljeera, the desi superdrink your body will thank you for!
