Sattu Drink Recipe – Refreshing Indian Summer Cooler with Lemon & Onion

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Sattu Drink Recipe – Refreshing Indian Summer Cooler with Lemon & Onion

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you dread those scorching summer days. But I’ve found the perfect solution – a super refreshing, cooling drink that’s been a staple in my family for generations. It’s called Sattu Drink, and trust me, it’s a game-changer. It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with goodness. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sattu drink isn’t just a thirst quencher; it’s a little piece of Indian summer nostalgia. It’s unbelievably easy to whip up – seriously, 5 minutes is all you need! Plus, it’s naturally cooling, energizing, and a fantastic source of protein. I first made this when I was craving something light and healthy, and it’s been a go-to ever since.

Ingredients

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

• 3-4 tbsp Sattu (roasted gram flour)
• 200 ml Water (about ¾ cup)
• To taste Lemon Juice (about 1-2 tbsp)
• To taste Salt (start with ¼ tsp)
• ½ tbsp Onion, finely chopped (optional)
• To taste Green Chilli, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tsp Coriander Leaves, chopped (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Sattu: The Powerhouse Grain

Sattu is the star of the show! It’s a coarse flour made from roasted Bengal gram (chana) and is a nutritional powerhouse. You can usually find it in Indian grocery stores.

Regional Variations of Sattu

Did you know there are different types of sattu? While chana sattu is most common, you can also find jowar (sorghum) and barley sattu. Each has a slightly different flavour profile.

Water Quality for Best Taste

Believe it or not, the water you use does matter! Filtered water will give you the cleanest, freshest taste.

Roasting Cumin Powder: Enhancing the Flavor

While not in the core recipe, a pinch of roasted cumin powder (about ¼ tsp) takes this drink to another level. Roasting the cumin seeds yourself really brings out their aroma. Just dry roast them in a pan for a couple of minutes until fragrant, then grind them.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing!

1. In a bowl, add the sattu. Slowly pour in the water, mixing constantly. This is key to avoiding lumps! Keep stirring until you have a smooth, slightly thick mixture.
2. Now for the flavour boost! Add the lemon juice, salt, and roasted cumin powder (if using). Give it a good stir.
3. Time for the optional goodies. If you’re making the onion variation, mix in the finely chopped onion, green chilli, and coriander leaves. You can also add a little chopped cucumber or raw mango for extra freshness.
4. Taste and adjust! This is where you make it your drink. Add more lemon juice for tanginess, salt for flavour, or chilli for a kick.
5. Finally, serve chilled with a few ice cubes. It’s best enjoyed immediately!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years:

• Adjusting Consistency: If the drink is too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, add a bit more sattu.
• Spice Level Customization: Don’t be shy with the green chilli if you like it spicy! Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Blending it Up: For an extra smooth drink, you can blend all the ingredients together in a blender.

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Onion Sattu Drink Variation

This is my personal favourite! The onion adds a lovely savoury note that balances the tanginess of the lemon. My grandma always made it this way.

Vegan Sattu Drink

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check your sattu source to ensure it hasn’t been processed with any animal products.

Gluten-Free Sattu Drink

Sattu is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Spice Level Adjustments: Mild to Spicy

For a milder flavour, skip the green chilli altogether. For a real kick, add a pinch of red chilli powder!

Festival Adaptations: Perfect for Holi or Summer Celebrations

This drink is amazing during Holi! It’s super hydrating and gives you a boost of energy for all the fun. It’s also perfect for any summer celebration.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this drink ice-cold for maximum refreshment. It’s fantastic on its own, but you can also pair it with light snacks like roasted chana or a simple salad.

Storage Instructions

Sattu drink is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store the sattu mixture (before adding water) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just add water and the other ingredients when you’re ready to drink it.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Sattu and where does it come from?

Sattu is a traditional Indian flour made from roasted and ground Bengal gram (chana). It originated in the Bihar region of India and is a staple in many parts of North India.

Can I use store-bought roasted sattu?

Absolutely! Store-bought sattu is perfectly fine to use. Just make sure it’s from a reputable brand.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

While you can mix the sattu with water ahead of time, it’s best to add the lemon juice and other flavourings just before serving to keep it fresh.

What are the health benefits of Sattu?

Sattu is packed with protein, fibre, and iron. It’s also a good source of calcium and magnesium. It’s known for its cooling properties and is often used to combat heatstroke.

Can I substitute the water with buttermilk or coconut water?

Definitely! Buttermilk will give it a tangy twist, while coconut water will make it even more hydrating and slightly sweet.

Enjoy your homemade Sattu Drink! I hope it brings you as much joy and refreshment as it brings me. Let me know in the comments how you like it, and if you try any fun variations!