Jal Jeera Recipe – A Refreshing Indian Summer Drink
Course: Snack | Cuisine: Indian | Diet: Vegetarian
Jal Jeera, a beloved Indian summer beverage, is an incredibly refreshing and tangy drink that provides a perfect relief from the summer heat. Featuring the robust flavors of cumin and the refreshing zest of lemon, this drink is elevated by the addition of black salt, rock salt, and finely chopped mint leaves. It’s not only a delightful drink but also an excellent digestive aid, making it a popular choice across India.
Ideal for serving at family gatherings or enjoying on a hot afternoon, Jal Jeera is a great way to beat the heat while tantalizing your taste buds. Serve it chilled for a more cooling experience, and pair it with snacks like Karnataka-style Churumuri or Delhi-style Matar Chaat for a complete treat.
Ingredients for Jal Jeera
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cumin powder (roasted) | 2 teaspoons |
| Black salt or rock salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Mint leaves (finely chopped) | 2 teaspoons |
| Lemon juice | As per requirement |
| Salt | As per taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~15 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~4 g |
| Protein | ~0.5 g |
| Fat | ~0 g |
| Fiber | ~0.3 g |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions to Make Jal Jeera
- Prepare the base liquid: In a large bowl, take 4 cups of water.
- Add the spices and herbs: Stir in the roasted cumin powder, black salt, and salt according to your taste.
- Add the freshness: Squeeze in lemon juice as per your preference, adding a delightful tang to the drink.
- Mint infusion: Finely chop the fresh mint leaves and add them to the water, letting them release their aroma and flavor into the drink.
- Mix well: Stir everything together until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Chill (Optional): If you prefer a chilled version, refrigerate the Jal Jeera for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- Optional add-ins: For an extra zing, you can add black pepper powder or crushed green chilies, enhancing the flavor complexity.
- Serve: Pour the Jal Jeera into glasses and serve immediately, optionally garnishing with a few fresh mint leaves.
Serving Suggestions
Jal Jeera is best enjoyed as a cool and refreshing snack drink, especially during the sweltering summer months. Pair it with light and crunchy snacks like Karnataka-style Churumuri (spicy puffed rice) or the famous Delhi-style Matar Chaat (spicy peas chaat) for a perfect snack platter.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Jal Jeera:
- Adjust the sourness: Depending on your preference, the quantity of lemon juice can be adjusted to balance the sourness.
- Customize the spice levels: Add more black salt or even a pinch of garam masala to enhance the flavor.
- Herbal twist: Try adding a few basil or coriander leaves for a unique twist.
Enjoy your refreshing glass of Jal Jeera, a perfect blend of flavors that not only cools you down but also aids in digestion!
