Why prefer aerated ones when we have our traditional drinks with natural and healthy ingredients to satiate our thirst?

South India boasts a vibrant array of refreshing drinks perfect for beating the summer heat. These beverages are not only delicious but also often come packed with health benefits, keeping you cool and hydrated throughout the day. Almost every part of South India has its own ‘go-to’ drink for the summer.

Summer Drinks From South India To Keep You Cool

Here are the most popular summer coolers from each region:

1. Mallithen

Coriander is a storehouse of minerals and vitamins. Meanwhile, honey is added to many medicinal concoctions. Even though this refreshing drink is loaded with nutrients, diabetic patients should avoid, it.

Preparation

• Boil five glasses of water
• Into it add lightly crushed coriander seeds
• Add the cardamom shells after the water boils rapidly
• Allow the drink to cool down before straining
• Add 1 teaspoon honey to a glass of coriander water.

2. Ragi Kanji

Ragi Kanji (or Ragi Buttermilk) is a refreshing and fermented drink made with ragi flour and water. It is a probiotic drink that is good for gut health. It is also a cooling and refreshing drink that is perfect for hot weather. Here are 7 Must-Eat Fermented Indian Foods for a Healthy Gut.

Instructions

• In a pan, whisk together the ragi flour and 1 cup of water to make a smooth paste.
• Bring the remaining 2 cups of water to a boil.
• Slowly add the ragi paste to the boiling water, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
• Let the mixture cool completely.
• In a serving pitcher, combine the cooled ragi mixture, buttermilk, and salt.
• Stir well and serve chilled.

3. Kambu koozh

Kambu Koozh or Pearl Millet Porridge is yet another high-protein, nourishing and invigorating summer porridge/drink made of local millet drink. It is easily made at home with simple ingredients. This millet drink, rich in nutrients cures diabetes and coronary artery diseases.

Instructions

• Wash the pearl millet thoroughly.
• Grind it into a coarse powder.
• In a pot, bring water to a boil.
• Add the ground millet and cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick.
• Let the mixture cool completely.
• Add buttermilk and salt to taste. Mix well.
• For a thinner consistency, add more water.
• Garnish with chopped curry leaves, green chilli (optional), and onions (optional) before serving.

4. Neer Mor

This buttermilk-based drink is a staple across South India. Neer Mor is not just refreshing but also aids digestion and is a good source of probiotics, which can make you feel cooler overall. For a surprising twist, add a dash of rose water for a touch of floral elegance.

Instructions

• Whisk together buttermilk and water.
• Add ginger, green chilli (if using), curry leaves, and coriander leaves.
• Season with salt to taste.
• For a floral twist, add a dash of rose water (optional).
• 5. Serve chilled.

5. Panakam

Panakam is made by boiling jaggery with water and spices like cardamom, pepper, and cloves. This sweet and spicy drink is not only refreshing but is also believed to have cooling properties and aid digestion. Aside from helping you relax, it also provides essential nutrients for your body. Try these 7 Delicious Jaggery Simple Recipes.

Instructions

• In a saucepan, heat the jaggery and water over medium heat until the jaggery dissolves.
• Strain the syrup to remove any impurities.
• Add the ginger, cardamom powder, and black pepper powder to the syrup and bring it to a boil.
• Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
• Add the lemon juice and stir well. Strain again and chill before serving.

6. Nannari Sherbet

This sweet and tangy drink is made with nannari root (also known as Indian Sarsaparilla). Nannari Sherbet has a unique bittersweet taste and is known for its cooling properties. It’s also believed to be beneficial for the digestive system. The Nannari root is loaded with health benefits and anti-inflammatory properties.

Instructions

• Mix nannari syrup with chilled water in a ratio according to taste preference.
• Add ice cubes to the mixture.
• Optionally, add a splash of lemon juice for extra freshness.
• Stir well and serve chilled.

7. Jigarthanda

Jigarthanda is a lip-smacking creamy and decadent drink celebrated especially during summer. Jigarthanda helps cool body heat and cures burning sensations in the stomach. Also make these 5 Refreshing Indian Summer Drinks To Hydrate Your Body.

Instructions

• Note: Keep everything chilled before assembling.
• Making Caramelised milk. : Take a pan with 4 tbsp jaggery powder and don’t disturb it will start caramelising and after its fully done sprinkle some 2-3 tbsp of reduced milk after switching off the stove and ready (keep it in fridge till use)
• Take a tall glass add badam pisin then caramalised milk with some nannari syrup.
• Next add khoya then chilled milk .
• Finally add scoops of vanilla ice-cream and drizzle some caramelised milk over or serve as it is chilled.

8. Elaneer Payasam

Tender coconut water, also known as Elaneer, is yet another rejuvenating drink during summer and to make it more interesting one can always try the Elaneer Payasam (Tender Coconut Payasam). This isotonic drink contains naturally occurring electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and magnesium. Elaneer Payasam is recommended for bone strength and heart wellness.

Instructions

• In a blender, blend tender coconut water, tender coconut flesh, milk, coconut milk, and cardamom powder. Blend until smooth.
• Pour the mixture into a serving glass or bowl.
• Garnish with saffron strands and chopped nuts.
• Serve chilled and enjoy this cool, creamy, and healthy Elaneer Payasam!

9. Avil milk

Avil milk, also known as Aval milk or Poha milk, is a refreshing and healthy South Indian drink perfect for summer. It is a perfect choice for a healthy South Indian drink during the summer. It’s a light, refreshing, and nutritious beverage. Also try these simple 7 weight loss poha recipes .

Instructions

• Dry roast the aval in a pan on low flame for 2-3 minutes until crisp.
• Mash the banana in a bowl.
• In a blender, combine the roasted aval, mashed banana, milk, cardamom powder and honey to taste (optional). Blend until smooth.Pour into a tall glass.
• Optionally, garnish with chopped nuts like almonds or cashews before serving.
• Serve warm or chilled, according to preference.

These are just a few examples of the many refreshing South Indian summer drinks available. So, next time you’re looking for a way to cool down, be sure to try one of these delicious and healthy beverages!

Stay Healthy! Stay Hydrated!