Authentic Indian Mint Recipe – Jaggery & Cumin Cooler

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Indian Mint Recipe – Jaggery & Cumin Cooler

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you need a refreshing drink on a hot day. And honestly, this isn’t just a hot-day drink – it’s a little slice of summer happiness in a glass. I first made this Jaggery & Cumin Cooler years ago, trying to recreate the flavors of the street-side jal jeera I’d enjoyed on trips to India. It’s become a family favorite, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average mint cooler. It’s a beautiful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory, all thanks to some incredible Indian ingredients. It’s super easy to make, requires minimal cooking (basically none!), and is incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to cool down and rehydrate, especially during those scorching summer months. Trust me, one sip and you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients

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

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 9-10 tablespoons jaggery powder (about 120-150g)
• 0.25 cup water (60ml)
• 0.5 teaspoon black salt (kala namak)
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because these aren’t just random choices!

• Jaggery: This is where the magic starts. Jaggery is an unrefined sugar, traditionally made from sugarcane juice. It has a lovely caramel-like flavor that’s so much more complex than regular sugar. It also adds a beautiful depth to the drink. You can find it in most Indian grocery stores, or online.
• Black Salt (Kala Namak): Don’t be scared off by the color! Black salt has a unique, slightly sulfurous flavor that adds a wonderful savory element. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine, especially in cooling drinks like this one. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it.
• Fresh Mint: Seriously, use fresh mint. Dried mint just won’t give you the same vibrant flavor. Look for bright green leaves with no signs of wilting. I like to grow my own, but a trip to the store works just as well!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, give those mint leaves a really good rinse. You want to make sure you get all the dirt and grit off. Then, drain them well.
2. Now, pop the mint leaves into a blender along with the jaggery powder, water, black salt, cumin powder, and lemon juice.
3. Blend everything together until it’s super smooth. You don’t want any leafy bits left!
4. Next, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to get rid of any pulp. This will give you a lovely, clear juice.
5. Finally, dilute the juice with water – I usually go for a ratio of 1 part juice to 3 parts water. Give it a good stir, add some ice cubes, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Chill Time: While you can drink this immediately, letting it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes really allows the flavors to meld together.
• Adjust Sweetness: Jaggery sweetness can vary. Taste as you go and add a little more if you prefer a sweeter drink.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best!

Variations

Want to make this cooler your own? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: If you like a little more kick, add a pinch of green chili powder or a tiny piece of ginger to the blender. My friend, Priya, loves adding a dash of chili powder!
• Vegan: Good news – this recipe is naturally vegan!
• Festival Adaptations: This is perfect for cooling down during festivals like Holi or Baisakhi. It’s a refreshing alternative to heavier, richer drinks.

Serving Suggestions

This cooler is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Spicy Indian snacks like samosas or pakoras.
• A light lunch on a hot day.
• Just about anything, really! It’s that versatile.

I love serving it in tall glasses with a sprig of fresh mint for a pretty presentation.

Storage Instructions

This cooler is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the concentrated juice (before diluting) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just add water and ice when you’re ready to drink it.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this drink best served immediately? While it’s good right away, chilling it for 30 minutes really enhances the flavors.
• Can I use sugar instead of jaggery? You can, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. If you do use sugar, start with about 6-8 tablespoons and adjust to taste.
• What are the health benefits of black salt? Black salt is believed to aid digestion and has a cooling effect on the body.
• Can I make a larger batch and store it? Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and store the concentrated juice as described above.
• What type of mint is best for this recipe? Spearmint or peppermint both work well. I personally prefer spearmint for its slightly sweeter flavor.