Cantaloupe & Clove Cooler Recipe – Refreshing Indian Summer Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Cantaloupe & Clove Cooler Recipe – Refreshing Indian Summer Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a drink that’s both incredibly refreshing and a little bit different. Especially during those scorching Indian summers! This Cantaloupe & Clove Cooler is exactly that – a sweet, subtly spiced, and unbelievably easy drink that’s become a total favourite in my kitchen. I first made this when I was craving something beyond the usual lassi and lemonade, and honestly, it’s been a go-to ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cooler isn’t just about beating the heat; it’s a little flavour adventure! The sweetness of cantaloupe beautifully complements the warm, aromatic cloves. It’s a surprisingly sophisticated combination that feels both comforting and revitalizing. Plus, it comes together in just 5 minutes – perfect for when guests pop over or you just need a quick treat for yourself.

Ingredients

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

• 2 heaping cups ripe cantaloupe (about 300g)
• 1 cup Homemade Almond Milk (240ml)
• 3 whole Cloves
• 1 cup Ice (about 240ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference:

Cantaloupe Selection & Ripeness

Choosing the right cantaloupe is key. You want one that feels heavy for its size and has a fragrant aroma at the stem end. A ripe cantaloupe will yield slightly to gentle pressure. Don’t be afraid to give it a little sniff – a sweet smell is a good sign!

Homemade Almond Milk vs. Store-Bought

I always recommend homemade almond milk if you have the time. It just tastes so much fresher and creamier! But, if you’re short on time, store-bought unsweetened almond milk works perfectly well. Just check the ingredients to avoid any added sugars or unnecessary additives.

The Significance of Cloves in Indian Cuisine

Cloves aren’t just about flavour; they have a long history in Indian cuisine and Ayurveda. They’re known for their warming properties and are often used in both sweet and savoury dishes. My grandmother always used to add a clove or two to her chai, and it just made it feel extra special.

Step-By-Step Instructions

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

First, you’ll want to grind those cloves. I use a coffee grinder – it works like a charm! Alternatively, a mortar and pestle will do the trick, just make sure you get them finely ground.

Next, roughly chop the cantaloupe and add it to your blender. Pour in the almond milk, the freshly ground cloves, and the ice.

Now, blend everything until it’s beautifully smooth and creamy. You might need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender a couple of times to make sure everything is fully incorporated.

Finally, pour into glasses and serve immediately with a straw. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way to make this cooler even better:

Adjusting Sweetness & Consistency

If your cantaloupe isn’t super sweet, you can add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. For a thicker cooler, add a few more ice cubes.

Blending Techniques for a Smooth Cooler

A high-speed blender will give you the smoothest results. If you don’t have one, just blend for a little longer and make sure the cantaloupe is well chopped beforehand.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Adaptation (already vegan!)

Good news – this recipe is naturally vegan! No changes needed.

Spice Level Adjustment – Adding a Pinch of Cardamom

My friend, Priya, loves to add a tiny pinch of cardamom to hers. It adds a lovely floral note that complements the cloves beautifully.

Festival Adaptation – A Thandai-Inspired Twist for Janmashtami

During Janmashtami, I sometimes add a few blanched almonds and a tiny bit of rose water for a Thandai-inspired twist. It’s a delicious way to celebrate!

Serving Suggestions

This cooler is perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with light snacks like fruit chaat or a simple vegetable sandwich. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to a spicy Indian meal – the sweetness helps to cool things down.

Storage Instructions

This cooler is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The colour might change slightly, but it will still taste good! You might need to give it a quick blend before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Is this cooler best served immediately?

Yes, absolutely! The ice will melt, and the flavours are at their peak when it’s freshly blended.

Can I use other types of milk besides almond milk?

Definitely! You can use any plant-based milk you like – oat milk, soy milk, or even coconut milk would all work well. Dairy milk is also an option if you’re not vegan.

What if I don’t have whole cloves – can I use ground cloves?

While whole cloves are preferred for the freshest flavour, you can use about ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves in a pinch. Just be careful not to add too much, as ground cloves can be quite potent.

How can I make this cooler ahead of time for a party?

You can chop the cantaloupe and grind the cloves ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, just blend everything with the ice and almond milk when your guests arrive.

Can I add other fruits to this Cantaloupe & Clove Cooler?

Absolutely! A little bit of pineapple or mango would be delicious. Just keep the cantaloupe as the star of the show!