Authentic Sattu Drink Recipe – Cooling Indian Yogurt & Mint Summer Cooler

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Sattu Drink Recipe – Cooling Indian Yogurt & Mint Summer Cooler

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you dread those scorching summer days. But I’ve found the perfect solution – a super refreshing, cooling drink that’s been a staple in Indian households for generations. It’s called Sattu Drink, and trust me, it’s a game-changer. I first discovered this when visiting my grandmother in Bihar, and it’s been my go-to summer cooler ever since! Let’s dive in and make some.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sattu Drink isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to make. It requires minimal ingredients and practically no cooking! It’s packed with protein, probiotics, and cooling properties, making it the ideal drink to beat the heat and keep you energized. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to experience a truly authentic Indian flavor.

Ingredients

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

• 1 cup Thick Yogurt or Curd (about 240ml)
• 2.5 cups Water (about 600ml)
• 2 tbsp Sattu Flour (about 20g)
• 0.5 cup Coriander leaves (about 30g), roughly chopped
• 0.25 cup Mint Leaves (about 15g), roughly chopped
• 1 tsp Ginger (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp Roasted Jeera Powder (about 5g)
• Rock Salt/Kala Namak, to taste
• Ice Cubes, as needed

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients – a few little tips can make all the difference!

Sattu Flour: What is it & Where to Find It

Sattu is a powdered form of roasted gram flour, incredibly popular in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand. It’s a powerhouse of protein and fiber! You can usually find it in Indian grocery stores, or online. If you’re struggling to find it, I’ve included substitution ideas in the FAQs section.

Yogurt/Curd: Choosing the Right Consistency

Thick yogurt is key here. The thicker the yogurt, the creamier your drink will be. I prefer using full-fat yogurt for the best flavor and texture, but you can use low-fat if you prefer. Dahi (Indian yogurt) works wonderfully!

Roasted Jeera Powder: The Flavor Booster

Don’t skip the roasted cumin powder! It adds a lovely smoky, earthy flavor that complements the sattu beautifully. You can buy it pre-made, or easily roast cumin seeds yourself and grind them.

Rock Salt/Kala Namak: A Unique Indian Touch

Kala Namak (black salt) is what gives this drink its distinctive, slightly sulfurous flavor. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine and adds a wonderful depth. While you can use regular salt, Kala Namak really elevates the taste.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. First, in a mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until it’s nice and smooth. No lumps allowed!
2. Add the sattu flour and roasted cumin powder to the yogurt. Mix well to combine. It might seem a little dry at first, but keep going.
3. Now, let’s make the herb paste. Pop the ginger, mint leaves, and coriander leaves into a grinder with about 2 tablespoons of water. Blend until you have a smooth, vibrant green paste.
4. Pour the herb paste into the yogurt mixture. Give it a good stir.
5. Gradually add water, mixing until you reach your desired consistency. I like mine slightly thick, but feel free to add more water for a thinner drink.
6. Finally, add rock salt to taste. Give it a final mix and… that’s it!
7. For the best experience, chill the drink for at least an hour. Or, if you’re impatient like me, serve immediately over ice cubes.

Expert Tips

• For a smoother drink: Strain the sattu mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before adding water.
• Adjust the tang: If you prefer a tangier drink, add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the sattu drink a little gluey. Mix just until everything is combined.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation! Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Sattu Drink

My friend, Priya, is vegan, and she makes a fantastic version using plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond yogurt). It’s just as delicious!

Spice Level Adjustment

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of green chili powder or a tiny piece of finely chopped green chili to the herb paste.

Regional Variations (Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, etc.)

In some regions, people add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of asafoetida (hing) for extra flavor. In Bihar, it’s often served with a side of roasted chana (gram chickpeas).

Festival Adaptations (Summer Solstice, Heatwave Relief)

During intense heatwaves, my family always makes a big batch of this to keep everyone hydrated and cool. It’s also a refreshing drink to enjoy during summer festivals.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Sattu Drink chilled, garnished with a sprig of mint and a slice of cucumber. It’s perfect on its own, or as an accompaniment to a light meal. It’s also a fantastic post-workout recovery drink!

Storage Instructions

You can store leftover Sattu Drink in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What is Sattu and is it healthy?

Sattu is a traditional Indian food made from roasted gram flour. It’s incredibly healthy, packed with protein, fiber, iron, and magnesium. It’s a great source of energy and aids digestion.

Can I make this Sattu drink ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can make it a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors actually meld together even more beautifully over time.

What can I substitute for Sattu flour?

If you can’t find sattu flour, you can try using roasted gram flour (besan) as a substitute, but the flavor won’t be quite the same. You could also try a blend of roasted barley flour and chickpea flour.

Is Kala Namak essential for the authentic flavor?

While you can use regular salt, Kala Namak really does add a unique and authentic flavor. It’s worth seeking out if you want the true Sattu Drink experience.

How can I adjust the thickness of the drink?

Simply add more or less water to achieve your desired consistency. Start with a little water and add more gradually until it’s just right.

Enjoy this cooling and delicious Sattu Drink! I hope it becomes a summer staple in your home too. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!