Chukku Kaapi Recipe (Dry Ginger Coffee)
Chukku Kaapi, a time-honored traditional coffee from Kerala, is not only a beverage but also a natural remedy often brewed in many households, especially during the cooler months. This delightful concoction blends dry ginger with coffee powder, creating a rejuvenating drink that soothes the throat, boosts immunity, and adds warmth to your day. The inclusion of spices like black pepper, cumin, and cardamom provides a robust flavor and offers additional health benefits, making this an excellent daily drink during the monsoon and winter seasons.
Chukku Kaapi is widely appreciated for its blend of flavors and healing properties, providing relief from common colds, coughs, and indigestion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting start to your day or a cozy evening drink, this recipe will quickly become a cherished part of your routine.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 4 cups |
| Dry ginger powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Instant Coffee Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Tulsi (Holy Basil) | 20 leaves |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 4 pods |
| Jaggery | 3 tablespoons (adjust to taste) |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste) |
Preparation Time:
- 2 minutes
Cook Time:
- 10 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Brew:
Begin by boiling 4 cups of water in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the water begins to bubble, add 3 tablespoons of jaggery and stir until it dissolves completely. -
Add the Spices and Coffee:
Once the jaggery has melted into the water, introduce 1 tablespoon of dry ginger powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds, 1 tablespoon of instant coffee powder, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper powder. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil for about 4 minutes to let all the ingredients blend together harmoniously, forming a rich and aromatic brew. -
Add the Tulsi and Let It Simmer:
Toss in the 20 leaves of fresh Tulsi (holy basil) and let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The Tulsi will infuse the coffee with its distinctive aroma and healing properties. -
Finish the Brew:
Now, add 4 cardamom pods (or 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder) and a pinch of salt to taste. Stir the mixture well, and allow it to boil for another minute before turning off the heat. -
Strain and Serve:
Strain the Chukku Kaapi into serving cups, discarding the solid spices and leaves. Serve hot, preferably in the morning or evening, to reap its soothing benefits.
Health Benefits:
Chukku Kaapi is revered for its medicinal properties. Dry ginger (Chukku) is known for its ability to relieve cough and cold, reduce inflammation, and ease digestive issues. Black pepper, cumin, and cardamom further enhance the drinkโs health-promoting qualities, acting as natural decongestants, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system. The addition of Tulsi leaves helps combat respiratory issues and provides relief from stress, making this drink a powerhouse of natural goodness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Best enjoyed: Hot and fresh, Chukku Kaapi is ideal as a morning beverage or a soothing evening drink.
- Pair with: You can enjoy this coffee with light snacks like crackers, roasted nuts, or even a slice of your favorite bread for a complete, refreshing experience.
Tip:
Adjust the sweetness of your Chukku Kaapi by increasing or decreasing the amount of jaggery according to your taste preferences. For a more intense flavor, add an extra pinch of black pepper or cardamom.
This traditional Kerala recipe brings a perfect balance of warmth, taste, and health benefits. Sip on this delightful drink to keep colds at bay and refresh your senses naturally. Enjoy the comforting goodness of Chukku Kaapi, a cup of Keralaโs finest tradition!
