Aam Ka Panna Recipe with Jaggery: A Refreshing Summer Delight
Aam Ka Panna, a quintessential North Indian summer cooler, is known for its tangy, sweet, and spicy flavor. Traditionally made with raw mangoes, this drink is both refreshing and rejuvenating, making it a perfect drink to beat the scorching summer heat. This version uses jaggery as a natural sweetener, which adds a rich depth of flavor to the drink. Paired with a hint of cumin, black salt, and pepper, it brings together a combination of flavors that are both tantalizing and healthy.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Aam Ka Panna with Jaggery
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raw Mango (Medium) | 2 |
| Jaggery (or Sugar) | 1/2 cup |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Salt (Kala Namak) | To taste |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 10 leaves |
| Water (Chilled) | As required |
| Ice Cubes | As required |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~50-70 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~12-15 g |
| Protein | ~0.5 g |
| Fat | ~0 g |
| Fiber | ~2 g |
| Sugar | ~9-12 g |
| Sodium | ~80-100 mg |
Instructions to Make Aam Ka Panna with Jaggery
-
Roasting the Mangoes
Begin by thoroughly rinsing the raw mangoes. To achieve the smoky flavor that defines Aam Ka Panna, place the mangoes on a wire mesh over the gas stove. Roast the mangoes on medium heat, turning them occasionally, until the skin is charred and the flesh inside softens. The roasting process should take about 10-12 minutes. -
Cooling the Mangoes
Once the mangoes are roasted, wrap them in aluminum foil or place them in a bowl to cool. This step helps to make peeling easier once the mangoes have cooled down. -
Extracting the Mango Pulp
After the mangoes have cooled, peel off the charred skin. Scoop out the soft, pulpy flesh into a bowl and discard the pit. You should have a rich, smooth mango pulp, which is the base of your Aam Ka Panna. -
Blending the Mixture
Transfer the mango pulp to a blender. Add jaggery (or sugar), cumin powder, black salt, and black pepper powder to the blender. Blend all ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, thick paste. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spiciness according to your preference, adding more jaggery or salt as needed. -
Preparing the Drink
In a large pitcher, add the mango paste you just prepared. Pour in chilled water to dilute the mixture, depending on how concentrated you want your drink to be. Stir well to combine. Add ice cubes to chill the drink further. -
Garnishing and Serving
Garnish the Aam Ka Panna with a few fresh mint leaves. The mint adds a refreshing aroma and cooling effect to the drink, making it even more enticing. Serve the drink in glasses, and enjoy it as a perfect, hydrating beverage during a hot summer evening.
Tips for the Perfect Aam Ka Panna:
-
Roasting the Mangoes: The charred skin of the mangoes imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the drink. If you’re short on time, you can also boil the mangoes, but roasting them gives the drink its authentic taste.
-
Adjusting Sweetness: The amount of jaggery can be adjusted based on the sweetness of the mangoes and your personal taste. Jaggery not only adds sweetness but also enhances the flavor with its rich, caramel-like taste.
-
Spice Levels: Aam Ka Panna is known for its balance of spices, so feel free to increase or decrease the cumin, pepper, and black salt according to your liking. If you prefer it spicier, you can also add a pinch of red chili powder.
-
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves are a must for this recipe. They add a refreshing note to the drink and complement the tangy mango flavor.
-
Serving Suggestions: Aam Ka Panna pairs beautifully with spicy snacks such as Chickpea Sundal or Sprouted Moong Bade (Moong Sprout Fritters). The drink helps in balancing the spice, making it a great accompaniment for light appetizers.
Why You Should Try This Aam Ka Panna with Jaggery
-
Hydrating and Refreshing: This drink is perfect for hydrating during the hot summer months. It not only quenches thirst but also provides essential nutrients.
-
Digestive Benefits: The cumin powder in Aam Ka Panna aids digestion, while black salt helps in improving metabolism, making it a great digestive tonic.
-
Natural Sweetener: Jaggery is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, offering vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium.
-
Vibrant Flavor Profile: With its perfect balance of tanginess from the raw mango, sweetness from jaggery, and spiciness from the cumin and pepper, this drink is a true celebration of flavors.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Chickpea Sundal Recipe
- Sprouted Moong Bade (Moong Sprout Fritters)
- Masala Lemonade
- Aam Panna with Mint and Sugar
- Spicy Cucumber Raita
Whether you enjoy it on a hot afternoon or as an accompaniment to your evening snacks, Aam Ka Panna with Jaggery is sure to become your go-to summer refreshment. Enjoy the goodness of raw mangoes, jaggery, and spices, all in one revitalizing drink!
