Jeera Pani: A Refreshing Cumin Soda Drink
Jeera Pani, or Cumin Soda, is a simple yet flavorful drink that’s perfect for hot days. It’s a traditional, refreshing Indian beverage that combines the cooling properties of mint with the earthy flavor of toasted cumin. Ideal for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a solo refreshment, this drink is light, energizing, and surprisingly satisfying. The tanginess of lime, the warmth of black pepper, and the sweetness of sugar harmonize beautifully with the soda, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh mint leaves | 1 handful |
| Soda water | 2 liters |
| Toasted ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Lime juice | Juice of 2 limes |
| Sea salt | A good pinch |
| Sugar | 1 heaping tablespoon |
Allergen Information
- Contains: None
- May contain: Trace amounts of allergens from cross-contamination in facilities.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: Yes (if sugar is vegan-friendly)
- Gluten-free: Yes
- Dairy-free: Yes
Instructions
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Prepare the Mint: Start by gently bashing the mint leaves between your palms. This helps release their aromatic oils and enhances the flavor. Add the mint leaves to a jug or large container.
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Combine the Ingredients: To the jug, pour in the soda water, followed by the toasted ground cumin and ground black pepper. Stir gently to combine and allow the flavors to infuse.
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Make the Lime Syrup: In a separate dish (or using a pestle and mortar), mix the lime juice, sea salt, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. This mixture adds the tangy-sweet balance to the drink.
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Combine and Serve: Add the lime-sugar mixture into the jug with the soda water and stir until everything is well blended. If desired, you can use a blender to fully incorporate the ingredients.
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Chill and Serve: Serve the Jeera Pani chilled, either with or without ice, in tall glasses. This drink is especially refreshing on a hot summer day.
Tips for the Best Jeera Pani
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar. You can also experiment with using a natural sweetener like agave or stevia if preferred.
- Infuse for longer: If you have time, allow the mint and cumin to steep in the soda water for a few hours to deepen the flavors.
- Add some sparkle: For extra fizz, you can add a sparkling lemon or lime soda for a more citrusy twist.
Conclusion
Jeera Pani is a wonderfully easy-to-make, healthy, and flavorful drink. Its combination of spices and refreshing ingredients makes it an ideal beverage for any time of the day, especially when the weather calls for something cool and hydrating. With just a handful of ingredients, this drink is a crowd-pleaser that offers a flavorful burst of summer in every sip. Whether you’re looking for something to serve at your next gathering or simply craving a thirst-quenching treat, this cumin soda drink is sure to become a favorite.
