Nongu Paal Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Delight
Nongu Paal, also known as Palm Fruit Milk, is a refreshing and hydrating Indian summer drink that combines the natural cooling properties of palm fruit with the creamy richness of milk. Perfectly flavored with cardamom and rose water, this drink is as visually appealing as it is delicious, thanks to its garnish of vibrant pomegranate seeds and delicate rose petals. Nongu Paal is an ideal snack or drink to beat the summer heat, offering a touch of sweetness that can be adjusted to your liking.
Nongu Paal Recipe Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Indian |
| Course | Snack |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Ingredients
The ingredients for this delicious Nongu Paal recipe are simple yet effective in creating a cooling and flavorful drink.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Nongu (Palm Fruit) | 10, peeled |
| Milk | 1/2 litre |
| Sugar or Honey | To taste |
| Cardamom Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Rose Water | 2 tbsp |
| Pomegranate Seeds | 2 tbsp |
| Rose Petals (Optional) | 15 |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-200 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Natural Sugars | 15 g |
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare Nongu Paal and enjoy this refreshing beverage:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Take the milk in a saucepan and place it on medium heat. Add the cardamom powder and mix thoroughly. Bring it to a gentle boil, then turn off the heat and let it cool to room temperature. |
| 2 | Peel the nongu (palm fruit) carefully. Use a blender to grind 5 of the nongu into a smooth pulp. Chop the remaining nongu into small bite-sized pieces. |
| 3 | Combine the nongu pulp, chopped nongu pieces, cooled milk, sugar or honey, and rose water in a mixing bowl. Stir well until the sugar or honey is completely dissolved. |
| 4 | Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the drink to chill thoroughly. |
| 5 | When ready to serve, pour the chilled Nongu Paal into serving glasses. Garnish each glass with a few pomegranate seeds, a sprinkle of rose petals (if using), and a couple of ice cubes. |
| 6 | Serve Nongu Paal as a refreshing snack or an accompaniment to savory Indian snacks like mathri or namkeen. Enjoy the soothing and cooling effects of this traditional summer drink! |
Tips & Variations
- Sweetness Level: You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by substituting sugar with honey or jaggery for a more natural flavor.
- Optional Garnish: The rose petals are optional but add a delicate floral aroma and an elegant touch to the drink.
- Serve Fresh: Nongu Paal is best served fresh and chilled. Avoid storing it for more than 24 hours to retain its freshness and flavor.
- Alternative Flavors: Add a few strands of saffron for a royal twist or a pinch of nutmeg for an earthy undertone.
Serving Suggestions
Nongu Paal pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian snacks. You can serve it alongside crispy mathri, masala papad, or a light vegetable sandwich for a balanced and satisfying snack experience. Alternatively, enjoy it on its own as a light, nutritious treat during a hot summer afternoon.
Embrace the cooling goodness of Nongu Paal and make it your go-to beverage for those sweltering summer days. Its delightful combination of textures, flavors, and aromas is sure to win over your taste buds and keep you refreshed all day long!
