Nannari Syrup & Basil Seeds Cooler Recipe – Refreshing Indian Summer Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Nannari Syrup & Basil Seeds Cooler Recipe – Refreshing Indian Summer Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re already dreaming of ways to beat the summer heat. Growing up, my Dadi (grandmother) always had a secret weapon against those scorching days – a cooling drink made with Nannari syrup and basil seeds. It’s seriously the most refreshing thing, and I’m so excited to share her recipe (with a few of my own tweaks!) with you today. This Nannari Syrup & Basil Seeds Cooler is quick, easy, and tastes like a little slice of summer heaven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another sugary drink. It’s a traditional Indian cooler packed with goodness! It’s naturally cooling, incredibly hydrating, and surprisingly easy to make. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrients. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll be making this all summer long.

Ingredients

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

• 500 ml cold water (about 2 cups)
• 1 large lime juice
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/3 cup nannari syrup
• 1 tbsp basil seeds (sabja seeds)

Ingredient Notes

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

Nannari Syrup: A Traditional Indian Cooling Agent

Nannari syrup is the star of the show! It’s made from the roots of the sarsaparilla plant and has been used in Ayurveda for centuries for its cooling properties. You can usually find it at Indian grocery stores, or online. It has a unique, slightly earthy flavor that’s incredibly refreshing.

Basil Seeds (Sabja Seeds): Health Benefits and Soaking

Don’t confuse these with regular basil! Basil seeds, also known as sabja seeds, are tiny black seeds that swell up when soaked in water. They’re packed with fiber and antioxidants. Definitely soak them before using – they become wonderfully gelatinous and add a lovely texture to the drink.

Lime Juice: Choosing the Right Limes

Freshly squeezed lime juice is best, hands down. Look for limes that feel heavy for their size – that means they’re juicy! I prefer using regular limes for this recipe, but you could experiment with other varieties.

Sugar: Adjusting Sweetness to Your Preference

I use regular granulated sugar, but feel free to adjust the amount to your liking. You can also use other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup (see FAQs for more details!).

Water: Importance of Cold Water

Seriously, use cold water. It makes a huge difference in how refreshing the cooler is. I usually keep a pitcher of water in the fridge specifically for this purpose.

Step-By-Step Instructions

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

1. First, blend half the water (about 250ml), lime juice, and sugar in a blender until the sugar is completely dissolved. This usually takes about 30 seconds.
2. Now, pour the blended mixture into a pitcher.
3. Add the nannari syrup and the soaked basil seeds to the pitcher. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
4. Finally, add the remaining cold water and stir again.
5. Serve chilled with ice cubes for maximum refreshment!

Expert Tips

• Soak those seeds! Don’t skip the soaking step for the basil seeds. They need at least 15-20 minutes to fully swell up.
• Taste as you go. Everyone has different sweetness preferences, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
• Chill time is your friend. Letting the cooler sit in the fridge for a bit allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Variations

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

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your nannari syrup to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden animal products.

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Ginger or Mint)

My friend, Priya, loves adding a small piece of grated ginger to the blender for a little zing. You could also muddle a few mint leaves in the pitcher for an extra burst of freshness.

Festival Adaptations (Ramadan/Summer Celebrations)

This cooler is perfect for breaking your fast during Ramadan, or for any summer celebration! It’s light, hydrating, and incredibly satisfying.

Adjusting Sweetness Levels

If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the sugar to ½ tbsp or even omit it altogether. The nannari syrup adds a good amount of sweetness on its own.

Serving Suggestions

This cooler is best served ice-cold! Garnish with a slice of lime or a sprig of mint for a pretty presentation. It’s perfect on its own, or as an accompaniment to spicy Indian snacks.

Storage Instructions

You can store leftover cooler in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The basil seeds will continue to swell, so the texture might change slightly. Just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What is Nannari Syrup and where can I find it?

Nannari syrup is a traditional Indian syrup made from the sarsaparilla root. It’s known for its cooling properties and unique flavor. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online retailers.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?

Absolutely! You can use honey, maple syrup, or even a sugar substitute like stevia. Adjust the amount to your liking.

How long can I soak the basil seeds?

You can soak basil seeds for up to 2 hours. However, they’ll continue to swell over time, so don’t soak them for too long or they’ll become mushy. 20-30 minutes is ideal.

Can this cooler be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time! Just prepare the cooler and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Is Nannari Syrup safe for everyone to consume?

While generally safe, it’s always best to check with your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Enjoy this little taste of summer! I hope you love this Nannari Syrup & Basil Seeds Cooler as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments if you try it, and what variations you come up with!