Traditional Panakam Recipe
Description:
Panakam is a traditional, refreshing, and healthy Indian drink typically prepared during festivals, especially for Sri Rama Navami. Known for its sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of spice, this drink not only cools you down but also offers numerous health benefits. It is traditionally served in temples and is an essential part of the chariot festivals (Theru) in many parts of India. This divine concoction, with its aromatic blend of ginger, cardamom, black pepper, and the natural sweetness of jaggery, makes for an ideal thirst quencher on a hot summer day.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 3 cups (chilled, preferably) |
| Jaggery (powdered) | 1/2 cup |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 6 |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 2 |
| Ginger (fresh) | 1-inch piece |
| Lemon | 1/2, squeezed |
| Tulsi (holy basil) | A few leaves, for garnish |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~50-60 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~13-15 g |
| Protein | ~0 g |
| Fat | ~0 g |
| Fiber | ~0 g |
| Sugars | ~12-15 g (from jaggery) |
| Vitamin C | ~6 mg |
| Calcium | ~10 mg |
| Iron | ~0.5 mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Preparation Time:
5 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Water Base:
Begin by taking 3 cups of chilled water in a clean bowl or jar. To this, add 1/2 cup of powdered jaggery. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the jaggery completely dissolves into the water. This forms the sweet base of your Panakam. -
Crush the Spices:
In a mortar, combine the washed ginger, 6 whole black peppercorns, and 2 cardamom pods. Using a pestle, crush the ingredients coarsely. This process helps release the aromatic oils and flavors, which are essential for the characteristic taste of Panakam. -
Add the Spice Mixture:
Once the spices are crushed, add them to the jaggery water mixture. The warmth of the water will help infuse the flavors into the drink, making it more aromatic and flavorful. -
Squeeze Lemon:
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the water mixture. The acidity from the lemon adds a refreshing tang, balancing the sweetness of the jaggery and the warmth of the spices. -
Strain the Mixture:
After stirring everything together, strain the Panakam using a fine mesh strainer to remove the crushed spices and any ginger pieces, leaving behind a smooth, flavorful drink. -
Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish the drink with a few fresh leaves of Tulsi (holy basil), which not only enhance the aroma but also add an extra layer of health benefits. Serve the Traditional Panakam chilled, and enjoy the cooling effects of this refreshing drink.
Serving Suggestions:
- Ideal for Hot Afternoons: Panakam is traditionally served during hot summer afternoons or as a refreshing drink during tea time.
- Festivals & Special Occasions: It is perfect for celebrations like Sri Rama Navami or during temple festivals and chariot processions (Theru), adding a sense of tradition to the festivities.
- Health Benefits: This drink not only refreshes but is packed with antioxidants and digestive properties due to the combination of jaggery, ginger, and basil.
Tips for Best Results:
- Water Temperature: Use chilled water for a more refreshing experience, especially during the peak summer heat.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference for sweetness, you can increase or decrease the amount of jaggery. However, jaggery is the traditional sweetener for this drink.
- Spices: If you prefer a stronger spice kick, feel free to increase the amount of pepper and ginger.
- Storage: Panakam is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftover drink in the refrigerator for a few hours.
Why Youโll Love This Traditional Panakam Recipe:
Panakamโs combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors offers a unique taste that is not only delicious but also refreshing. It provides a natural energy boost, aids digestion, and has anti-inflammatory properties due to the spices used. This drink is a wonderful, healthy alternative to sugar-laden beverages and is perfect for those looking for a wholesome, authentic Indian drink to enjoy in the summer heat.
Enjoy this traditional drink that is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a dive into the rich cultural heritage of India. Whether you’re preparing it for a festival or simply to quench your thirst on a warm day, Panakam will bring a taste of tradition to your home.
