Kerala has its own smart ways of shooing away the heat, says Divya Nair. From spiced buttermilk to herbal infusions, certain ingredients can turn a simple summer drink into a memorable treat. Many have digestive properties too. If you are travelling to Kerala this month, don't forget to sip on some of these delights.
Kulukki Sarbath
A lemon-based drink of crushed ice, green chilly, basil (sabja) seeds, sugar syrup, as the name suggests, it’s a fun and tangy beverage. The ingredients are shaken vigorously before it is served in a tall glass. The sarbath is available in multiple flavours/variations.
Moru Sambharam
Unlike the chaas of north India, which is also buttermilk, the Kerala version is spicier with crushed ginger, green chillies, curry leaves, salt.
Nannari Sherbet
The main ingredient of this drink is nannari (sarsaparilla), a locally-prepared root syrup that usually contains jaggery/sugar. It is added to lemon juice, sabja seeds, chilled water, ice and the earthy drink's cooling effect is further enhanced.
Ilaneer Juice
In several parts of Kerala, humble coconut water is blended with coconut malai (tender coconut) and/or lemon juice and served chilled with or without sugar. When garnished with chunks of the coconut, this drink is naturally sweet and irresistible.
Panakam
Considered to be a favourite of Lord Ram, the traditional drink is a blending of jaggery, dry ginger, a pinch of cardamom, a dash of lime. Sweet and cooling with a hint of spice, Panakam has a lingering sweet-and-spicy aftertaste. Across state lines over in Tamil Nadu, the same cooler is referred to as Panagam.
Karingali Vellam
If you visit any restaurant in Kerala, chances are you will be served delicate pink-hued water. A type of boiled herbal water prepared using pathimugham (sappanwood), cumin, local herbs, it has a subtle, rustic flavour and digestive qualities.
Fuljar Soda
Imagine a rich concoction of spicy mint masala shot being dropped into a glass of fizzy soda, creating a dramatic visual. As you gulp it down, the spices blend with the soda creating a tangy, sweet and spicy flavoured drink.