Indian drinks are a true feast of flavors and aromas, reflecting the rich culture and traditions of this wonderful country. The variety of Indian drinks is amazing: from refreshing cool cocktails to warming spicy teas. Each drink has a unique combination of spices, fruits and herbs that make it unique.
Masala Chai
Masala tea is an iconic Indian drink that combines strong black tea, milk and a unique mix of spices. Cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and black pepper create a unique aroma and warming flavor. Masala tea is not just a beverage, but a part of Indian hospitality.
Try masala chai goes great with Indian sweets such as laddoo or jalebi.
Lassi
Lassi is another famous Indian drink. This refreshing yogurt cocktail can be sweet, salty or fruity:
- Sweet lassi – sugar, rose water or cardamom are added. This variant is especially popular as a dessert drink.
- Salty lassi – prepared with salt, black pepper, zira and other spices. It is a traditional variant that quenches thirst well.
- Fruit lassi – the most famous type is mango lassi. This variant is prepared with fresh mango or mango puree, which makes it especially delicious and nutritious.
Kokum Sherbet
This drink is made from the fruit of kokum, a tropical fruit popular in western India. Kokum sorbet has a refreshing sweet and sour flavor and many health benefits. It helps to quench thirst and improve digestion.
Sour-sweet flavor, with a slight tartness that is refreshing in the heat. Aroma with subtle fruity and slightly grassy notes. Ideal for hot climates as it helps cool the body. Contains anthocyanins that help fight cellular aging and inflammation.
Toddy
Toddy is a naturally fermented drink made from the sap of palm trees. This traditional drink is popular in southern states like Kerala. Although it contains a low level of alcohol, fresh sap is also consumed in its unfermented form.
Toddy is particularly popular in the southern states of India such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Goa. In Kerala, the drink is called “karan” and is traditionally served in local “toddy shops” along with savory snacks.
Unfermented toddy has a sweet, refreshing flavor, while fermented toddy has a slight sour taste. The alcohol content is usually low (3-6%), making it a popular choice for locals.
Nimbu Pani
Nimbu pani, or lemon drink, is a classic refreshing cocktail made from lemon, water, sugar and salt. It is served everywhere from street vendors to cafes. Its popularity is due to the availability of ingredients and the versatility of the flavor. Each region adds its own specialties to the recipe, making the drink unique.
This simple but refined drink is the perfect companion on hot days, not only refreshing but also energizing.
Fenny
Fenny is an alcoholic beverage made from cashew nuts or coconuts in Goa. The drink has a strong flavor and aroma as well as high strength. It is a popular souvenir among tourists visiting Goa.
Fenny has an unusual and strong flavor, which can vary depending on the method of production and ingredients. The drink often has a distinct fruity or nutty flavor (in the case of cashew fenny), with slight notes of earthiness and spice. It can be slightly sweet or bitter, depending on the added ingredients.
Fenni is an integral part of Goa’s culture. It is traditionally consumed during festivals, ceremonies and celebrations, or simply as an aperitif. In recent years, fenni has become famous outside India and has become a popular souvenir among tourists visiting Goa. It is often bought in bottles with colorful labels and as gifts.
Locals often drink fenni with fruit or in cocktails. It is a strong drink that is consumed in small quantities in India to enjoy its unique taste and aroma.
Coffee from South India
South Indian filter coffee is made from ground beans brewed in a special filter. The drink is served with hot milk and sugar, creating a thick and rich texture. This is a must-try for coffee lovers.
The coffee has a unique and rich flavor. The drink has a strong but smooth texture, and its consistency combined with milk gives it a special creaminess. The sugar and milk balance its bitterness, making the flavor mild but maintaining its intensity.
In South India, coffee is not just a beverage, it is an important element of culture and ritual. It is usually served in the morning as part of breakfast or after lunch. In Indian homes, it is customary to drink coffee from glasses or small metal cups, often on low tables. This gives a special feeling of coziness and belonging to tradition.
Filter coffee is also known for its unique way of serving: coffee is often served in two cups. One cup of coffee (real coffee) and a second cup in which milk is poured, allowing each person to adjust the strength of the beverage to their own taste.
Turmeric Latte (Golden Milk)
Turmeric latte is a drink that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years due to its health benefits and unique flavor. Also known as “golden milk”, it combines milk, turmeric, ginger and honey to create a warm and flavorful treat that is perfect for cold days.
Not only is it delicious, but it is also an extremely healthy drink. It helps boost the immune system, thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and ginger. Also, this drink is often used to fight colds and flu as it helps reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation.
Sugar cane beverage Ganne ka Ras
Ganne ka Ras, or sugarcane juice, is one of the most popular street drinks in India. This natural and refreshing juice is made from freshly cut cane, which is put through a press machine to extract the sweet nectar.
Ganne ka Ras is usually served over ice and a drop of lemon juice or ginger to enhance the flavor. In some regions, a little salt or spices are added to balance the sweetness and spice the drink up.
Why are Indian drinks so popular?
Indian drinks are not only delicious but also healthy. Many are based on ancient Ayurveda recipes aimed at balancing the body and mind. Whether you’re looking for an invigorating tea, a cooling lassi, or a healthy herbal drink, Indian culture offers a rich variety of flavors that will appeal to everyone.
