India's vibrant culture is reflected in its diverse range of beverages, each with unique flavours and rich traditions. From aromatic teas infused with spices to refreshing fruit-based drinks that cool you down on a hot day, Indian beverages offer something for every palate.
Whether you're a fan of spiced teas, refreshing coolers, or creamy concoctions, Indian beverages provide a delightful journey for your taste buds. In this blog, let's see some of the most popular Indian drinks that you simply must try.
1. Masala Chai
Masala chai is one of India's most iconic and beloved beverages. This spiced tea is more than just a drink. It's a ritual that brings people together.
A spiced tea made with black tea leaves, milk, sugar, and a blend of aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. The chai is usually strained before serving to remove the tea leaves and spices.
Masala chai is often enjoyed throughout the day, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, sometimes accompanied by snacks like biscuits, pakoras, or samosas.
2. Lassi
Lassi is a traditional Indian yoghurt-based drink, known for its refreshing and cooling properties. Originating from Punjab, lassi has become popular across the country and beyond due to its creamy texture and versatile flavours.
This refreshing drink is made by blending yoghurt with water or milk until smooth, then sweetened or salted to taste. Sweet lassi is flavoured with sugar, fruits like mango, or rose water, while savoury lassi is seasoned with salt and spices.
It is perfect for cooling down on a hot day, making it a popular choice during the scorching summers. It’s also a great accompaniment to spicy meals, helping to balance the heat.
3. Filter Coffee
Filter coffee, also known as South Indian Filter Coffee is a beloved beverage in South India, renowned for its strong, rich flavour and aromatic profile.
A strong, aromatic coffee made with a blend of dark roasted coffee beans and chicory, traditionally brewed in a special filter. It’s usually served with milk and sugar.
Filter coffee is typically enjoyed in the mornings or after meals, providing a robust and energising start to the day or a satisfying conclusion to a meal.
4. Lemon juice(Nimbu Pani)
Lemon juice is one of India's most popular and refreshing beverages. It’s simple, yet incredibly effective at quenching thirst and revitalising the body, especially in summer.
This refreshing drink is made with fresh lemon juice, water, sugar, salt, and sometimes a dash of cumin powder or mint. usually served chilled, often with ice cubes, in a glass.
It's also commonly consumed after physical activity or as a remedy for dehydration due to its balance of electrolytes and refreshing taste. Its simplicity, versatility, and refreshing qualities make it a must-try drink, especially when the temperatures rise.
5. Thandai
Thandai is a traditional Indian drink, Originating from Rajasthan and often associated with the festivals of Holi and Maha Shivaratri. It’s a rich and flavorful beverage made with a mixture of milk, nuts, and spices.
A traditional drink made from milk, sugar, almonds, fennel seeds, watermelon seeds, rose petals, pepper, cardamom, saffron, and poppy seeds.
The mixture is often strained to remove any coarse particles, resulting in a smooth, creamy drink. Best enjoyed during festive occasions or in the warmer months.
6. Aam Panna
Aam Panna is a popular Indian summer drink made from raw mangoes. Known for its tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavour, It is celebrated for its cooling properties and its ability to protect against heatstroke.
Tangy and sweet drink made from the boiled mango pulp, sugar or jaggery, black salt, roasted cumin powder and water until well combined. Mint leaves can be used as a garnish.
This drink beautifully captures the essence of Indian summers and showcases the versatility of raw mangoes in Indian cuisine.
7. Jaljeera
Jaljeera is a popular Indian beverage known for its tangy, spicy, and refreshing taste. It's a unique blend of water and spices.
A spicy and tangy drink made from cumin (jeera) water, tamarind, mint, ginger and other spices. It’s often served as an appetiser or digestive. Commonly enjoyed in the summer or as a refreshing start to a meal.
8. Sattu Sharbat
Sattu Sharbat is a traditional Indian drink made from sattu, which is roasted gram flour. This beverage is particularly popular in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. It is a refreshing, nutrient-packed drink that helps combat the heat and provides energy.
A nutritious and cooling drink made from roasted gram flour (sattu), water, and sugar or salt. Lemon juice is incorporated to enhance the flavour. Great for rehydration and energy during the hot summer days.
9. Badam Milk
Badam Milk is a rich and indulgent Indian beverage made from milk and almonds. This traditional drink is cherished for its creamy texture, nutty flavour, and numerous health benefits.
A rich, creamy milk beverage flavoured with ground almonds (badam), saffron, and cardamom. It’s often served warm or chilled.
Whether served warm on a cold evening or chilled for a refreshing treat. Ideal as a comforting drink before bedtime or as a sweet treat.
Exploring Indian beverages offers a delightful journey through the diverse flavours and rich cultural heritage. Each drink, from the spiced warmth of Masala chai to the nutritious refreshment of badam milk provides a unique taste of India’s culinary traditions.
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