Prickly Pear Cooler Recipe – Refreshing Indian Summer Drink

Last Updated on 3 months by Neha Deshmukh

Prickly Pear 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! Well, let me introduce you to my latest obsession: a Prickly Pear Cooler. It’s vibrant, naturally sweet, and seriously hits the spot. I first made this when a friend brought over a couple of Nagfani (that’s what we call prickly pears back home!) and challenged me to do something fun with them. And fun it was!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Prickly Pear Cooler isn’t just a pretty drink; it’s a flavour explosion! It’s naturally sweet, subtly tart, and unbelievably hydrating. Plus, it’s super easy to make – perfect for when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic way to cool down, impress your friends, and explore a unique fruit.

Ingredients

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

• 2 prickly pears
• 4 cups water (approximately 950ml)
• 1.5 lemons juice (approximately 60ml)
• 0.5 tablespoon Nectevia (or sweetener of your choice)
• Ice cubes, as needed
• Lemon wedge, for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients, especially the star of the show – the prickly pear!

Also known as Nagfani in Hindi, this cactus fruit is native to Mexico but has found a home in parts of India, particularly in Rajasthan and Maharashtra. It’s a beautiful fruit, often a deep magenta colour, and it’s packed with antioxidants. Finding them might take a little effort, but trust me, it’s worth it! You can often find them at local farmer’s markets or specialty fruit vendors.

Now, about the sweetener. I’ve used Nectevia here, which is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener. But feel free to substitute it with what you prefer! Honey or jaggery work beautifully for a more traditional Indian touch. About 1-2 tablespoons of either should do the trick, adjusting to your sweetness preference.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get making! It’s simpler than you think.

1. First, carefully wash the prickly pears. This is important! Then, cut off both ends and make a slit down the middle.
2. Now, using a spoon or a knife (be careful!), scoop out the vibrant pink flesh. Don’t worry about the tiny seeds just yet.
3. Pop the prickly pear flesh into a blender with 1 cup (240ml) of water. Blend until it’s beautifully smooth – about 30 seconds to a minute should do it.
4. Next, strain the mixture through a sieve to remove those pesky seeds. You want a smooth, seedless puree.
5. In a pitcher, combine the prickly pear puree, lemon juice, Nectevia (or your chosen sweetener), and the remaining 3 cups (720ml) of water. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined.
6. Finally, fill your glasses with ice, pour in the cooler, and garnish with a lemon wedge. Enjoy immediately!

Expert Tips

• Handling Prickly Pears: Those tiny spines (glochids) are no joke! Always wear gloves when handling prickly pears, even after removing the outer skin. A quick singe with a flame can help remove any remaining spines.
• Blending: If your blender struggles, add the water gradually.
• Taste Test: Always taste and adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking.

Variations

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

• Spice Level: My friend, Priya, loves adding a tiny pinch of black salt or roasted cumin powder for a savoury twist. It sounds strange, but it works!
• Festival Adaptations: This is perfect for summer festivals like Baisakhi or Onam. It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional sweet drinks.
• Sugar-Free Option: If you’re watching your sugar intake, Stevia or Erythritol are excellent substitutes for Nectevia.

Serving Suggestions

This Prickly Pear Cooler is best served ice-cold. It’s fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with spicy Indian snacks like samosas or pakoras. It’s also a lovely accompaniment to a light lunch or dinner.

Storage Instructions

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can store the prickly pear puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cooler itself is best consumed immediately after making, as it can lose its fizz and flavour over time.

FAQs

Let’s address some common questions:

1. Where can I find prickly pears in India?

You’ll likely find them in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and some parts of South India, especially at local farmer’s markets or specialty fruit vendors.

2. What does prickly pear taste like?

It’s a unique flavour! It’s often described as a mix of watermelon, bubblegum, and pear, with a subtle tartness.

3. Are prickly pears safe to eat, and how do I handle the thorns?

Yes, they are safe to eat once the thorns are removed! Always wear gloves and be careful when handling them.

4. Can I use frozen prickly pear pulp for this cooler?

Absolutely! Just thaw it completely before blending.

5. What is Nectevia, and can I substitute it with something else?

Nectevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener. You can easily substitute it with honey, jaggery, Stevia, or Erythritol.

6. How long can I store the prickly pear puree?

You can store the puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

So there you have it! A vibrant, refreshing, and utterly delicious Prickly Pear Cooler. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as I do. Happy sipping!