Aam Pora Shorbot Recipe – Bengali Aam Panna Recipe
An Exotic Mango Drink to Refresh Your Senses
If you’ve ever experienced the hot, humid days of summer in Bengal, you’re likely familiar with the delicious and revitalizing drink known as Aam Pora Shorbot. Also known as Bengali Aam Panna, this traditional drink is made with raw mangoes roasted over an open flame, a refreshing concoction that brings together the tangy flavor of mango with aromatic spices and fresh mint. The result is a delightful, thirst-quenching drink that can be served either sweet or savory, depending on your preference. Here’s the step-by-step guide to make this Bengali favorite, perfect for hot days and festive occasions.
Ingredients for Aam Pora Shorbot Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Mangoes (sour variety) | 6 Mangoes |
| Sugar or Jaggery | 1/2 cup (adjust to taste) |
| Roasted Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 3 tbsp |
| Black Salt (Kala Namak) | 2 tsp (adjust to taste) |
| Fresh Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 6 sprigs (ensure only leaves) |
| Chilled Water | As needed |
| Ice Cubes (optional) | As desired |
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes
Total Time: 30 Minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Bengali
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions for Aam Pora Shorbot Recipe
-
Roasting the Mangoes:
Begin by preparing the pulp for the Aam Pora Shorbot. Start by washing and wiping the raw mangoes to remove any dirt. Place the mangoes on a direct flame, either on a gas burner or barbecue grill, and roast them on low to medium heat. Rotate the mangoes occasionally, ensuring that the skin is charred and blackened on all sides. The charred skin is a sign that the mango pulp has softened and is fully cooked inside. This process takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of the mangoes. -
Cooling and Extracting the Pulp:
Once the mangoes are roasted, remove them from the flame and cover them with a damp cloth or kitchen towel to cool. This will help in peeling off the skin easily. Once they have cooled enough to handle, peel off the charred skin and discard it. Carefully extract the pulp from the mangoes, discarding the stone in the center. Set the mango pulp aside. -
Blending the Ingredients:
Take the extracted mango pulp and transfer it into a blender. Add the fresh mint leaves (with the stems removed), black salt, and roasted cumin powder. Blend these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture. This concentrated mango pulp can be stored in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. -
Making the Sweet Version of Aam Pora Shorbot:
To prepare the sweet version of this drink, you will need a mixing bowl (steel or glass) and a balloon whisk. Pour enough chilled water into the bowl to dilute the mango pulp to your desired consistency. Add a few tablespoons of the prepared Aam Pora Shorbot pulp to the water, and sweeten it with jaggery or sugar according to your taste. Using the balloon whisk, vigorously whisk the mixture until everything is well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the pulp or sweetener if needed, whisking again to ensure all ingredients are fully blended. -
Serving the Sweet Aam Pora Shorbot:
Once the sweet version is ready, pour it into individual serving glasses or mason jars. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint leaves and, if desired, add a few ice cubes to chill the drink. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors of this refreshing Bengali drink. -
Making the Savory Version of Aam Pora Shorbot:
For those who prefer a savory twist, the savory version of Aam Pora Shorbot omits the sugar or jaggery. Instead, whisk the mango pulp with chilled water and add a little more black salt to taste. This savory version is typically served without ice but can be chilled before serving. It’s perfect for pairing with snacks like Raw Banana Chivda or Dal Vada with Oats and Vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Aam Pora Shorbot
- Adjusting the Sweetness: The amount of sugar or jaggery you use can be adjusted based on your preference. Some prefer a lightly sweetened drink, while others enjoy a more robust sweetness.
- Fresh Mint: The freshness of mint leaves is key in making this drink aromatic and refreshing. Be sure to use only the leaves, removing the stalks for the best flavor.
- Chilled Water: For the best results, always use chilled water to make the drink refreshing, especially on a hot day.
- Storage: The mango pulp can be stored for up to a week in the refrigerator, so you can make it in advance and prepare a fresh batch of the drink whenever you like.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~60 kcal |
| Protein | 0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Vitamin C | 30% of daily value |
| Iron | 2% of daily value |
Conclusion
Whether you opt for the sweet or savory version, Aam Pora Shorbot is a fantastic, versatile drink that captures the essence of summer in every sip. With the sweet and tangy flavors of roasted mangoes, fragrant cumin, and cooling mint, this Bengali beverage is sure to refresh and delight your guests. Serve it at a summer gathering or enjoy it as a midday refresher. Either way, it’s a drink that brings the joy of Bengali cuisine to your home. Enjoy!
