Chia Seeds Shikanji Recipe
Chia Seeds Shikanji is a refreshing, nutrient-packed drink thatโs perfect for hot summer evenings, offering both hydration and health benefits. This vibrant, zesty drink not only cools you down but also gives you a good dose of antioxidants, fiber, and protein. With the tangy taste of lemon, the aromatic flavor of cumin, and the cooling sensation from mint, this drink is an invigorating choice for any time of day โ morning or evening.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Chia Seeds Shikanji
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chia Seeds | 4 teaspoons |
| Chilled Water | 3 cups |
| Ice Cubes | 1 cup |
| Lemon | 3, juiced |
| Sugar (Powdered) | 4 tablespoons |
| Black Salt (Kala Namak) | To taste |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | A pinch |
| Black Pepper Powder | A pinch |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | Chopped, for garnishing |
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60-80 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Potassium | 150 mg |
Instructions for Chia Seeds Shikanji
-
Soak the Chia Seeds:
Begin by adding 4 teaspoons of chia seeds into 2 cups of water. Stir the mixture well, ensuring the seeds are evenly dispersed in the water. Let the seeds soak for 30 minutes, during which they will expand and form a gel-like texture. -
Prepare the Shikanji Mixture:
After the chia seeds have soaked, squeeze the juice of 3 lemons into a large mixing bowl. Add 4 tablespoons of powdered sugar (or honey if you prefer a natural sweetener) and stir until the sugar dissolves completely. -
Mix the Flavors:
To the lemon-sugar mixture, add 3 cups of chilled water, a pinch of cumin powder (jeera), and a pinch of black pepper powder. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. -
Add the Chia Seeds:
Once the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is well-combined, add in the soaked chia seeds along with the water they were soaked in. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seeds evenly. -
Serve Chilled:
Add 1 cup of ice cubes to the drink and stir again to chill it further. Garnish with chopped mint leaves (pudina) for a fresh, cooling touch. -
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this Chia Seeds Shikanji in tall glasses and enjoy it immediately as a refreshing, health-boosting drink. For a complete summer snack experience, pair it with Baked Mathri or fresh fruits, which will enhance the cooling effect and refresh your senses.
Tips and Variations
- Sweetener Options: Feel free to replace sugar with honey or stevia to make it even healthier, or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.
- Flavor Boost: You can add a touch of ginger powder or black salt for an extra zing in the flavor.
- Cool Down: This drink is perfect for hot days, and its cooling ingredients, such as mint and chia seeds, will help you beat the summer heat.
Conclusion
Chia Seeds Shikanji is a delightful and rejuvenating drink that brings the perfect blend of flavors together. It’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, making it an excellent choice for your snack time or even as a morning energizer. With minimal preparation, this drink will quickly become a go-to favorite for those looking for a healthy and tasty way to hydrate.
