Refreshing and Tangy Jaljeera Recipe: A Traditional Indian Summer Cooler

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons cumin seeds
  • 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mango powder (amchur)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon black salt
  • 1 tablespoon common salt
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 2 liters of water
  • Ice cubes for serving
  • Mint leaves for garnishing
  • Lemon slices for garnishing

Steps and instructions

  1. Roast the cumin seeds and fennel seeds in a pan over medium heat until they become fragrant.
  2. Remove the seeds from the heat and allow them to cool.
  3. Grind the cooled cumin seeds, fennel seeds, black pepper, and dry mango powder into a fine powder using a grinder or mortar and pestle.
  4. Add the fresh mint leaves, coriander leaves, sugar, black salt, and common salt to the ground spices and continue to grind until all the ingredients are well combined.
  5. Squeeze the juice from the lemons and add it to the spice mixture.
  6. Gradually add the water to the spice and lemon juice mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  7. Refrigerate the mixture for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
  8. Before serving, strain the jaljeera and discard the residue.
  9. Serve the jaljeera over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices.

Tools for making

  • Pan - Used for roasting the cumin seeds and fennel seeds.
  • Grinder or Mortar and Pestle - Used for grinding the roasted seeds and spices into a fine powder.
  • Juicer - Used to extract the juice from the lemons.
  • Strainer - Used to strain the jaljeera before serving to remove any residue.
  • Refrigerator - Used to chill the jaljeera mixture for a couple of hours before serving.
  • Glasses or Serving Cups - Used for serving the jaljeera.

Recipe variations

  • Add a pinch of chaat masala for an extra tangy flavor.
  • Add finely chopped green chili for a spicy kick.
  • Replace sugar with jaggery for a more traditional taste.
  • Add a teaspoon of roasted cumin powder for an additional layer of flavor.
  • Blend in a small piece of ginger for a hint of warmth.
  • Add a teaspoon of tamarind pulp for a slightly sour taste.
  • Garnish with boondi (crispy chickpea flour balls) for added texture.
  • Make it a sparkling jaljeera by adding carbonated water instead of plain water.
  • Replace the fresh mint leaves with dried mint leaves for a unique flavor.
  • For a fruity twist, add a few cubes of diced pineapple or watermelon.

Recipe overview

Discover the refreshing taste of Jaljeera, a popular Indian beverage known for its tantalizing mix of flavors. This cooling drink is the perfect antidote to a hot summer day and is also a great digestive aid. Packed with the goodness of cumin, fennel, mint, and a hint of lemon, Jaljeera is both nourishing and delicious. The recipe is straightforward, involving a simple process of roasting and grinding spices, mixing them with herbs and lemon juice, and allowing the concoction to chill. Served over ice and garnished with mint leaves and lemon slices, this beverage is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Get ready to surprise your taste buds with this unique Indian drink.

Common questions

  1. What is jaljeera? Jaljeera is a popular Indian beverage made with a blend of spices, herbs, and lemon juice. It is known for its refreshing and tangy flavor.
  2. What are the key ingredients in jaljeera? The key ingredients in jaljeera include cumin seeds, fennel seeds, black pepper, dry mango powder (amchur), mint leaves, coriander leaves, sugar, black salt, common salt, lemon juice, and water.
  3. How do I make jaljeera? To make jaljeera, you need to roast and grind the spices, mix them with herbs and lemon juice, add water, refrigerate, strain, and serve over ice.
  4. Can I adjust the spice level in jaljeera? Yes, you can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of black pepper and black salt according to your preference. You can also add green chili for an extra kick of heat.
  5. Can I make jaljeera in advance? Yes, jaljeera can be made in advance. It is actually recommended to refrigerate it for a couple of hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Can I store leftover jaljeera? Yes, you can store leftover jaljeera in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to keep it covered in an airtight container.
  7. Can I garnish jaljeera with anything else? While mint leaves and lemon slices are the most common garnishes, you can also add chopped coriander leaves, grated ginger, or even a sprinkle of chaat masala.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Jaljeera, a refreshing Indian summer drink, has its roots deeply embedded in the Indian subcontinent's culinary history. Sometimes referred to as the "Indian Lemonade", it has been a part of traditional Indian households for many generations. This drink is a beautiful blend of various everyday spices and herbs, bringing out a tangy, spicy, and refreshing flavor. Jaljeera has a unique place in Indian cuisine and is not just enjoyed as a drink but also serves as a digestive aid due to the beneficial herbs and spices used in its preparation. Steeped in the rich tapestry of Indian food culture, Jaljeera is often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings, adding to the sense of joy and celebration. It's a common sight in Indian summer markets where vendors sell chilled Jaljeera, providing a much-needed respite from the scorching heat. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the peaceful countryside of Uttar Pradesh, this drink is a true testament to India's diverse and vibrant food culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.