Pineapple Jal Jeera Recipe
Description:
Jal Jeera is a refreshing, flavorful drink that is packed with the aromatic spices of cumin, tamarind, and the sweetness of pineapple. It’s a traditional Indian drink that provides relief during hot summer days, making it a popular choice for cooling off. You can also use this concoction to enhance the flavor of pani puri, adding a unique twist to the classic street food experience. Typically prepared in North Indian households, this drink not only soothes the body but also aids in digestion with its spicy and tangy taste.
Cuisine: Maharashtrian Recipes
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cumin seeds (जीरा) | 1 ½ tbsp (roasted) |
| Dried mint (सूखा पुदीना) | ¼ tsp (ground) |
| Kashmiri red chili powder (कश्मीरी लाल मिर्च) | ½ tsp (dry) |
| Whole black pepper (पूरी काली मिर्च) | 8 whole (crushed) |
| Asafoetida (हींग) | A pinch |
| Dry mango powder (अमचूर पाउडर) | ½ tsp |
| Black salt or rock salt (काला नमक या सेंधा नमक) | ½ tsp |
| Regular salt (सी नमक) | ½ tsp |
| Fresh mint leaves (पुदीना) | 1 to 1½ tbsp (finely chopped) |
| Tamarind paste (इमली का पेस्ट) | 1 tbsp |
| Fresh coriander leaves (हरा धनिया) | 1 tbsp (finely chopped) |
| Sugar (शक्कर) | 1 tbsp |
| Pineapple (पाइनएप्पल) | ½ cup (juice) |
| Water (पानी) | 1 to 1½ cups (chilled) |
| Boondi (optional) | For garnish |
Preparation Time: 0 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare Fresh Herbs: Begin by thoroughly washing the fresh mint leaves and coriander leaves. Set them aside to dry.
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Prepare the Pineapple Juice: Peel the pineapple and cut it into slices. Using a juicer, extract the juice and strain it twice with a fine sieve or strainer to remove any pulp. Set the fresh juice aside for later use.
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Prepare the Spice Mix: In a mixer grinder, add the roasted cumin seeds (जीरा), dried mint powder (सूखा पुदीना), black pepper (काली मिर्च), Kashmiri red chili powder (कश्मीरी लाल मिर्च), asafoetida (हींग), and dry mango powder (अमचूर पाउडर). Grind them together to form a coarse powder.
-
Make the Flavored Paste: In the same mixer grinder, add the tamarind paste (इमली का पेस्ट), chopped mint leaves (पुदीना), chopped coriander leaves (हरा धनिया), and 3 to 4 tablespoons of chilled water. Blend everything to form a smooth paste.
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Strain the Paste: Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the paste and remove any fibrous particles, resulting in a smooth, flavorful liquid.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a large jar or pitcher, pour the freshly extracted pineapple juice, and add chilled water according to your desired consistency. Stir well to combine.
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Add the Sweetness: Stir in the sugar (शक्कर) and mix until the sugar completely dissolves in the liquid.
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Mix in the Paste: Add the strained spice paste to the jar and mix thoroughly. Adjust seasoning by adding black salt, regular salt, or more sugar to taste.
-
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the prepared Pineapple Jal Jeera for a while to chill and allow the flavors to meld together. Serve in tall glasses, garnished with boondi (optional) for added texture and crunch.
Serving Suggestions:
This Pineapple Jal Jeera makes for a perfect evening refreshment, especially when served with snacks like samosas or any of your favorite finger foods. It’s also a great option to serve at parties, as its unique flavors and cooling properties will surely be a hit among guests.
Enjoy this tangy, spicy, and sweet drink as a revitalizing appetizer or accompaniment to your summer meals!
