Pineapple Juice Recipe – Indian Style with Black Salt & Cumin

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Pineapple Juice Recipe – Indian Style with Black Salt & Cumin

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a refreshing drink, especially when the weather heats up. And honestly, nothing beats a glass of freshly made pineapple juice. But this isn’t just any pineapple juice – we’re giving it a little Indian twist with black salt and roasted cumin. Trust me, it’s a game changer! I first made this when I was craving something different, something that felt both familiar and exciting, and it’s been a family favourite ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pineapple juice is seriously the best of both worlds. It’s incredibly easy to make – we’re talking 10 minutes, tops! – and bursting with tropical flavour. But the addition of black salt and cumin takes it to another level, adding a savoury, slightly smoky depth that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and a little bit…magical.

Ingredients

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

• 1 medium pineapple
• 2-3 tablespoons sugar (optional)
• 6-8 ice cubes
• 1 cup water (approximately 240ml)
• Optional: Black salt (kala namak), to taste
• Optional: Roasted cumin powder, to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec. These little things can make all the difference!

• Pineapple: Fresh is always best, but we’ll chat about canned options later.
• Sugar: I like to add a little sugar to balance the tartness, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a more natural flavour. You can also use honey or maple syrup!
• Black Salt (Kala Namak): This is the secret weapon! It has a unique sulphurous flavour that really elevates the juice. Don’t be scared to try it – it’s amazing.
• Roasted Cumin Powder: Adds a lovely warmth and earthiness. You can roast cumin seeds yourself (highly recommended!) or use store-bought.
• Water: Adjust the amount of water to get your desired consistency.

Pineapple Selection & Ripeness

Choosing the right pineapple is key. Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a sweet, fragrant aroma at the base. A little give when you gently squeeze it is good too! Avoid pineapples with soft spots or a fermented smell.

The Unique Indian Twist: Black Salt & Cumin

Okay, let’s get to the good stuff. Black salt, or kala namak, is a volcanic rock salt that’s been infused with herbs and spices. It has a distinctive flavour that’s both savoury and slightly tangy. The roasted cumin powder adds a warm, earthy note that complements the pineapple beautifully. This combination is a classic in Indian cuisine, often used in chaats and drinks.

Sugar – To Sweeten or Not To Sweeten?

This is totally up to you! Pineapples vary in sweetness, so taste your pineapple before adding any sugar. If it’s already sweet, you might not need any at all. I usually start with 2 tablespoons and adjust from there.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some juice!

1. First, peel and chop your pineapple into chunks. Don’t worry about being too precise – the blender will take care of everything.
2. Add the pineapple pieces, sugar (if using), ice cubes, and water to your blender.
3. Blend everything until it’s super smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more water until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Now, here’s where you can choose to strain the juice or not. I personally like to leave it unstrained to get all that lovely fibre. But if you prefer a smoother juice, go ahead and strain it.
5. Pour into glasses and garnish with a pineapple wedge and a sprig of mint.
6. Finally, sprinkle a pinch of black salt and roasted cumin powder on top.

Expert Tips

• Chill your pineapple: For an extra refreshing juice, chill the pineapple for about 30 minutes before blending.
• Use frozen pineapple: If you don’t have ice, frozen pineapple works great! It will give you a thicker, frostier juice.
• Don’t over-blend: Over-blending can make the juice frothy and bitter. Blend just until smooth.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

Want a thicker juice? Add more ice or frozen pineapple. Prefer a thinner juice? Add more water, a little at a time, until you get it just right. It’s all about personal preference!

Keeping it Fresh: Best Practices

Pineapple juice is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you need to make it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavour and colour may change slightly over time.

Variations

• Vegan Pineapple Juice: This recipe is naturally vegan!
• Adjusting Sweetness Levels: Experiment with different sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar.
• Spice It Up: Adding Ginger or Chili: My friend loves adding a small piece of ginger or a tiny pinch of chili powder for a little kick. It’s surprisingly good!
• Festival Adaptations: Summer Coolers & Celebrations: This juice is perfect for summer parties or any festive occasion. You can even add a splash of sparkling water for a bubbly treat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pineapple juice chilled, with a slice of pineapple and a sprig of mint. It’s delicious on its own, or you can pair it with a light breakfast, lunch, or snack. It’s also a fantastic addition to a brunch spread!

Storage Instructions

As I mentioned, fresh pineapple juice is best enjoyed immediately. But if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be aware that the juice may separate and lose some of its vibrant colour.

FAQs

Is it better to use fresh pineapple or canned pineapple for juice?

Fresh pineapple is always the best option for flavour and nutrients. However, canned pineapple can work in a pinch. Just make sure to choose pineapple packed in juice, not syrup.

Can I make this juice ahead of time? If so, how long will it last?

You can make it ahead of time, but it’s best consumed within 24 hours. The flavour and colour will start to degrade after that.

What are the health benefits of pineapple juice?

Pineapple juice is packed with Vitamin C, bromelain (an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties), and antioxidants. It’s great for boosting your immune system and aiding digestion.

What does black salt (kala namak) add to the flavor?

Black salt adds a unique savoury, slightly sulphurous flavour that complements the sweetness of the pineapple. It’s a flavour bomb!

Can I use other spices besides cumin? What would you recommend?

Absolutely! Ginger, cardamom, or even a tiny pinch of cinnamon can be delicious additions. Feel free to experiment and find your favourite combination.