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My journey through India's top 10 traditional beverages

From masala chai and creamy lassi to soul-stirring filter coffee and invigorating aam panna, these top 10 beverages are a testament to India's diverse culture.

Encompassing a variety of cultures and culinary legacies, India presents a collection of time-honored beverages. These delightful concoctions not only reflect the country's diverse heritage but also unlocks a mosaic of flavours that define it. Throughout my journeys across the country, I've had the pleasure of immersing myself in the realm of Indian beverages. Join me as I recount my experiences and offer insights into what makes every sip truly special.

Table of Contents:

  • Masala chai: The quintessential brew
  • Filter coffee: South India's liquid gold
  • Lassi: The yoghurt delight
  • Nimbu pani: The tangy quencher
  • Sattu sherbet: The nutritious cooler
  • Kanji: The probiotic elixir
  • Solkadhi: The coastal refresher
  • Sugarcane juice: Nature's nectar
  • Thandai: A festive indulgence
  • Aam panna: A mango extravaganza
  • A journey through the flavours of India

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Masala chai: The quintessential brew

Nothing is an quintessentially Indian as sipping from a steaming cup of masala chai. Infused with a blend of spices, such as cardamom, ginger, and cloves, this milk-based tea is a delight to the senses. While you get masala chai in many places across the country, I discovered my personal favourite at a lively tea stall on College Street in Kolkata. The aromatic allure of their tea is unmatched. Its flavours enveloped my senses, offering warmth and invigoration like no other.

Filter coffee: South India's liquid gold

A distinct South Indian speciality, filter coffee is crafted by allowing hot water to pass through a specially designed metal filter containing ground coffee beans. This brewing technique results in a rich velvety beverage that sets it apart from other coffee preparations. During my visit to the coffee plantations in Coorg, I witnessed the meticulous process behind brewing filter coffee. The result was a smooth drink, enriched by the aroma of freshly ground coffee beans. All in all, it was a truly wonderful experience that left me in admiration of the unique brewing technique.

Lassi: The yoghurt delight

Lassi is a traditional drink that is made with curd, sugar, and a hint of cardamom. When I visited Amritsar, I had the privilege of discovering a legendary lassi shop located near the iconic Golden Temple. The thick and creamy texture of the drink provided a welcome respite in the scorching heat of Amritsar.

Nimbu pani: The tangy quencher

Amid the bustling bazaars of Jaipur, I chanced upon a humble street vendor meticulously squeezing fresh lemons. He was making nimbu pani, a tangy and refreshing lemonade infused with rock salt and cumin powder. It instantly awakened my taste buds, providing a much-needed burst of energy to explore the city's majestic forts and palaces.

Sattu sherbet: The nutritious cooler

Sattu sherbet is a wholesome and nutritious beverage that is crafted from roasted gram flour and a medley of spices. On my trip to Patna, I had the pleasure of trying the drink for the first time. Its earthy flavours and satiating quality make it a revitalising drink. Sattu sherbet has remained a beloved drink in Bihar for generations, especially during the scorching summer months.

Kanji: The probiotic elixir

In Punjab, I stumbled upon kanji. This traditional fermented drink has many versions across North India. The one I discovered was a tangy and slightly sour beverage that was prepared with black carrots and a combination of spices. Kanji is traditionally stored in matkas (earthen pots) and is often served during the festival of Holi.

Solkadhi: The coastal refresher

I was introduced to solkadhi while exploring the coastal paradise of Goa. This refreshing drink is made using coconut milk and kokum, a tangy fruit indigenous to the region. Solkadhi perfectly harmonises the sweet and sour flavours of Goan cuisine.

Sugarcane juice: Nature's nectar

Amid the swaying sugarcane fields of Maharashtra, I discovered the pure bliss of freshly squeezed sugarcane juice. The drink is an instant energy booster. Many vendors in India add pudina (mint) leaves, a hint of lemon, a touch of ginger, and a sprinkling of black salt to the juice. What a symphony of flavours!

Thandai: A festive indulgence

While in Varanasi, I indulged in the creamy aromatic drink known as thandai. This beverage takes centre stage during Holi celebrations. It is an exquisite blend of dry fruits, fragrant rose petals, saffron, and milk—creating a sensory explosion. Needless to say, I was thrilled at the first sip!

Aam panna: A mango extravaganza

Whenever the summer heat reaches its peak, I find solace in the refreshing tang of aam panna. This soul-satisfying drink is made from raw mangoes. It's commonly found across North India, especially in Uttar Pradesh. With its sweet and sour notes, enhanced by roasted cumin and black salt, the drink offers a burst of flavour that instantly cools you down. Aam panna is not just a great drink but also celebrates the beloved mango, a fruit synonymous with India.

A journey through the flavours of India

Embarking on a journey to explore traditional Indian beverages is not just about discovering new flavours, it is also about unlocking the vibrant cultural heritage of the country. So, the next time you decide to journey across India, be sure not to miss these fantastic drinks!

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