Nongu Paal Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Delight
Nongu Paal, also known as Ice Apple Milk, is a refreshing and nutritious South Indian drink made using nongu (ice apple or palm fruit). This traditional recipe is perfect for combating the scorching summer heat while offering a delightful blend of flavors. Let’s walk through the steps to create this cooling beverage that you can enjoy as a snack or pair with light savories.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ice Apple (Nongu), peeled | 10 pieces |
| Milk | 1/2 liter |
| Sugar or Honey | As per taste |
| Cardamom Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Rose Water | 2 tablespoons |
| Pomegranate Seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Rose Petals (optional) | 15 petals |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approx. Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fats | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Preparation Time and Servings
| Details | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Milk Base
- Pour milk into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Add cardamom powder to the milk and stir well to infuse the flavors.
- Once done, remove the milk from heat and let it cool completely to room temperature.
Step 2: Preparing the Nongu (Ice Apple)
- Peel the nongu carefully and set them aside.
- Take five of the peeled nongu and blend them into a smooth paste using a blender.
- Dice the remaining nongu into small pieces and mix them with the blended paste.
Step 3: Assembling the Drink
- In a mixing bowl, combine the nongu mixture with the cooled milk.
- Add sugar or honey as per your taste preference, followed by rose water.
- Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 4: Chilling the Drink
- Transfer the prepared mixture into a refrigerator and let it chill for 3–4 hours.
- This step is essential for enhancing the flavors and serving the drink cold.
Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
- Before serving, garnish the chilled Nongu Paal with pomegranate seeds, rose petals, and a few ice cubes for added freshness.
- Serve it as a refreshing snack or pair it with savory treats like crackers or salted biscuits.
Tips for the Perfect Nongu Paal
- Use fresh and tender nongu for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness based on your preference; honey adds a natural touch of sweetness.
- Experiment with garnishes like edible flowers or mint leaves for an aesthetic touch.
- For a creamier version, replace regular milk with full-fat milk or add a splash of condensed milk.
Enjoy this delectable Nongu Paal as a cooling drink during hot afternoons or as a delightful addition to any meal. Its subtle sweetness, fragrant rose water, and soft ice apple bits make it a memorable treat that everyone in the family will relish!
