Gooseberry Juice Recipe – Authentic Indian Amla Sharbat & Buttermilk Cooler

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Gooseberry Juice Recipe – Authentic Indian Amla Sharbat & Buttermilk Cooler

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for drinks that are both incredibly refreshing and good for you. And let me tell you, this Gooseberry Juice (Amla Sharbat) ticks all the boxes! I first made this when I was trying to boost my immunity during a particularly hectic season, and it quickly became a family favorite. It’s a little tart, a little sweet, and totally revitalizing. Plus, the buttermilk cooler variation is perfect for those scorching summer days. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another juice recipe. We’re talking about the powerhouse that is Amla, or the Indian Gooseberry! It’s packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a fantastic immunity booster. This recipe is super easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is a delicious way to incorporate this amazing fruit into your diet. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• ¼ kg gooseberries (Amla)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tbsp gooseberry juice
• ½ tsp mint and curry leaves paste
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk Amla! It’s seriously a superfood.

• Amla/Gooseberries: You want to select ripe, slightly yellowish gooseberries without any cuts or blemishes. There are different varieties of Amla across India – some are more sour, some are sweeter. Experiment to find your favorite!
• Fresh is Best: While Amla powder is an option (we’ll get to that in the FAQs!), fresh gooseberries really deliver the best flavor and nutritional benefits.
• Buttermilk: Use a good quality, slightly tangy buttermilk. You can even make your own!
• Mint & Curry Leaves: This paste adds a lovely freshness. Don’t skimp on it! It really elevates the buttermilk cooler.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some juice!

1. First, give your gooseberries a good wash. Then, chop them into medium pieces and remove the seeds. This can be a little fiddly, but it’s worth it!
2. Now, grind those pieces with minimal water to form a smooth paste. You don’t want it too watery, just enough to help it blend.
3. Strain the paste through a sieve, squeezing manually to extract every last drop of juice. This is where the real effort comes in, but trust me, the result is worth it.
4. For the basic Amla Sharbat, mix 10-15 ml of fresh juice with water or buttermilk. Add salt or honey to taste – adjust to your preference!

Expert Tips

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

• Choosing Amla: Look for gooseberries that are firm to the touch. A little give is okay, but avoid anything too soft.
• Consistency is Key: If your juice is too thick, add a little more water. Too thin? Strain it again!
• Preventing Oxidation: Amla juice can oxidize and change color pretty quickly. Adding a tiny squeeze of lemon juice can help slow this down.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation!

• Vegan Adaptation: Simply use plant-based yogurt to make the buttermilk cooler vegan-friendly. Coconut yogurt works beautifully!
• Spice Level Adjustment: My friend, Priya, loves adding a tiny pinch of ginger or black pepper to her Amla juice. It gives it a lovely warming kick.
• Festival Adaptations: This is the drink to have during summer festivals like Holi or Baisakhi. It’s so cooling and refreshing after all the dancing and festivities!

Buttermilk Cooler Variation – Detailed Options

This is where things get really fun!

1. Blend 2 gooseberries with 1 cup of curd (yogurt), ½ tsp of mint and curry leaves paste, a splash of water, and salt to taste.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
4. Garnish with a sprig of mint and enjoy! You can also add a pinch of roasted cumin powder for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Amla juice or buttermilk cooler chilled. A sprig of mint or a slice of gooseberry makes a lovely garnish. It’s perfect on its own, or as an accompaniment to a light meal.

Storage Instructions

• Amla Juice: Homemade Amla juice is best consumed fresh. However, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Buttermilk Cooler: Store the buttermilk cooler in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate slightly, so give it a good stir before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze excess juice in ice cube trays for later use. Avoid using metal containers as they can react with the juice.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What are the health benefits of drinking Amla juice?

Amla juice is a powerhouse of Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. It’s known to boost immunity, improve digestion, and promote healthy skin and hair.

Can I use Amla powder instead of fresh gooseberries?

Yes, you can! Use about 1-2 teaspoons of Amla powder per cup of water. However, the flavor and nutritional benefits won’t be quite as potent as with fresh Amla.

How can I reduce the sourness of Amla juice?

Add a little honey, sugar, or jaggery to balance the sourness. You can also dilute it with more water or buttermilk.

Is Amla juice safe for people with sensitive stomachs?

Amla juice is generally safe, but it can be slightly acidic. Start with a small amount and see how your stomach reacts. If you have any concerns, consult your doctor.

How long can I store homemade Amla juice in the refrigerator?

Up to 24 hours, but it’s best consumed fresh.

What is the best time of day to drink Amla juice?

Many people prefer to drink Amla juice in the morning on an empty stomach. However, you can enjoy it anytime of day!