Nannari & Basil Seed Drink Recipe – Easy Summer Cooler

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Nannari & Basil Seed Drink Recipe – Easy Summer Cooler

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick and refreshing drink to beat the Indian summer heat. This Nannari & Basil Seed Drink is my go-to – it’s unbelievably easy to make, tastes amazing, and is packed with goodness. I first discovered this drink during a particularly scorching summer in Chennai, and it’s been a family favourite ever since! Let’s get right into it, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another summer cooler. It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane for many of us, and a delicious discovery for those trying it for the first time. It’s quick – seriously, just 3 minutes to put together! – and requires minimal effort. Plus, it’s naturally cooling and incredibly hydrating. What’s not to love?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful drink:

• ½ cup cold milk (about 120ml)
• 3 tbsp Nannari Sarapsadilla Syrup
• ¼ tsp basil seeds
• Cold water, as required
• 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Nannari Sarapsadilla Syrup: Origin and Benefits

Nannari Sarapsadilla syrup is a traditional Indian summer cooler concentrate made from the roots of the sarsaparilla plant. It has a unique, earthy-sweet flavour and is known for its cooling properties. You can usually find it in Indian grocery stores, or online. It’s believed to have several health benefits, including aiding digestion and purifying the blood – though I mostly drink it because it tastes so good!

Basil Seeds: Nutritional Value and Soaking Tips

Basil seeds (also known as sabja seeds) are tiny black seeds that swell up when soaked in water, creating a gel-like consistency. They’re a great source of fibre and omega-3 fatty acids. I recommend soaking them for at least 10 minutes before using – this makes them easier to digest and gives the drink a lovely texture. Don’t soak for too long though, or they’ll get overly slimy!

Milk Variations: Dairy vs. Non-Dairy Options

Feel free to use whatever milk you prefer! I usually use full-fat milk for a richer flavour, but you can easily substitute it with almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for a vegan option. Coconut milk also works beautifully and adds a lovely tropical twist.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make this drink! It’s so simple, you’ll be sipping on it in no time.

1. First, pour the cold milk into a serving glass.
2. Add the Nannari syrup and give it a good whisk until everything is nicely combined.
3. Now, add the soaked basil seeds to the glass.
4. Top it off with cold water – add as much as you like, depending on how concentrated you want the flavour to be.
5. Finally, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Want to take your Nannari & Basil Seed Drink to the next level? Here are a few of my favourite tricks:

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

The key to a great Nannari drink is the right consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, add another small scoop of ice cream or a touch more Nannari syrup.

Adjusting Sweetness Levels

Nannari syrup is already quite sweet, so you might not need any extra sugar. But if you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to taste.

Using Fresh Basil Seeds

While dried basil seeds are more common, you can use fresh ones if you can find them! You’ll need to use a larger quantity of fresh seeds, and they may not swell up as much.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

Vegan Nannari & Basil Seed Drink

Simply swap the dairy milk for your favourite plant-based milk and use a vegan vanilla ice cream. My friend, Priya, swears by using coconut milk – it’s divine!

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Ginger or Black Pepper)

For a little kick, add a tiny pinch of grated ginger or black pepper to the drink. It sounds strange, but it really complements the Nannari flavour.

Festival Adaptations (Ramadan/Summer Celebrations)

This drink is perfect for breaking your fast during Ramadan, or for cooling down during any summer celebration. You can even add a sprinkle of rose petals for a festive touch!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this drink immediately after making it for the best flavour and texture. A tall glass with a colourful straw always makes it feel extra special. It’s also lovely with a small side of biscuits or a light snack.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this drink is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have any leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. The basil seeds will continue to swell, so the consistency might change slightly.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Nannari Sarapsadilla and where can I find it?

Nannari Sarapsadilla is a traditional Indian syrup made from the sarsaparilla root. You can find it in most Indian grocery stores, or online retailers.

Can I use flavored milk instead of plain milk?

You can! Vanilla or almond-flavoured milk would work well. Just be mindful of the added sweetness and adjust the Nannari syrup accordingly.

How long can I soak the basil seeds for?

I recommend soaking them for 10-15 minutes. Soaking them for too long can make them overly slimy.

Is this drink suitable for children?

Yes, it is! Just make sure to use a moderate amount of Nannari syrup, as it can be quite sweet.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can soak the basil seeds ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.