Tender Coconut Water Recipe – Nannari & Lemon Summer Cooler

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Tender Coconut Water Recipe – Nannari & Lemon Summer Cooler

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a drink that’s both incredibly refreshing and good for you, especially when the Indian summer heat kicks in. This Tender Coconut Water with Nannari and Lemon is exactly that – a little slice of paradise in a glass! I first made this when my cousin visited during a particularly scorching April, and it’s been a family favourite ever since. It’s so easy to put together, and honestly, it just feels like summer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just your average coconut water. We’re taking it up a notch with the cooling magic of Nannari Sarbath syrup and a zing of fresh lemon. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and hydrating. Plus, it’s ready in under 10 minutes! What’s not to love?

Ingredients

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

• 1 tender coconut (no.)
• 2 tablespoons Nannari Sarbath syrup
• ½ lemon (no.)
• Few ice cubes

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients – a few little things that can make all the difference!

Tender Coconut: Selecting the Best One

Choosing a good tender coconut is key. Look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a good amount of water sloshing inside when you shake it. The outer shell should be green and smooth, avoiding any with dark spots or cracks.

Nannari Sarbath Syrup: A Traditional Cooling Agent

Nannari Sarbath syrup is a traditional Indian summer cooler, made from the roots of the sarsaparilla plant. It has amazing cooling properties and a unique, slightly earthy flavour. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores, or even online. (Around 60ml per 2 tablespoons)

Lemon Juice: Fresh vs. Bottled

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best! It adds a brightness that bottled juice just can’t match. But if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work too. (About 30ml)

Ice Cubes: Quality & Quantity

Good quality ice makes a difference! Filtered water ice cubes are ideal. Don’t overdo it though – you want to taste the coconut water and Nannari, not just ice!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing!

1. First, carefully select a tender coconut and extract its water. I like to use a sharp knife or a coconut opener, being super careful not to spill a drop of that precious liquid!
2. Next, remove the coconut flesh. You can scoop it out with a spoon.
3. Place the coconut flesh into a serving glass.
4. Now, add 2 tablespoons of Nannari Sarbath syrup and the juice of ½ a lemon to the glass.
5. Pour in the collected tender coconut water and give everything a good mix.
6. Finally, add a few ice cubes and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• For an extra chilled drink, chill the coconut water for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of Nannari syrup to your liking. Some people prefer it sweeter, others less so.
• If you’re using a very large coconut, you might want to double the amount of syrup and lemon juice.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation!

Spice Level Adjustment

My friend, Priya, loves a little kick in her cooler. Try adding a tiny pinch of black pepper or a sliver of ginger to the mix. It’s surprisingly good!

Festival Adaptations (Summer Solstice/Heatwave Refreshment)

During intense heatwaves or summer festivals, I sometimes add a few mint leaves for an extra cooling boost. It feels very festive and refreshing.

Vegan Adaptation (Naturally Vegan!)

Good news – this recipe is naturally vegan! No modifications needed.

Variations with Other Syrups

If you can’t find Nannari syrup, you can experiment with other flavours like rose syrup or even a little bit of mango pulp. Though, honestly, Nannari is what makes it special!

Serving Suggestions

This drink is best served immediately. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon for a pretty presentation. It’s perfect on its own, or alongside a light snack like murmura (puffed rice).

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this is best enjoyed fresh. Coconut water doesn’t store well once mixed. If you absolutely have leftovers, you can store it in the fridge for a few hours, but the flavour will start to diminish.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

Is Tender Coconut Water Good for Digestion?

Yes! Tender coconut water is known for being easily digestible and can help soothe the stomach.

What are the Health Benefits of Nannari Sarbath?

Nannari Sarbath is believed to have several health benefits, including cooling the body, improving skin health, and aiding digestion.

Can I Use Bottled Tender Coconut Water?

You can, but the flavour won’t be quite as fresh and vibrant as using water directly from a tender coconut.

How Do I Know if a Coconut is Fresh?

Shake it! You should hear a good amount of water sloshing around. Also, look for a green, smooth shell.

Can I Make Nannari Syrup at Home?

Yes, but it’s a bit of a process! It involves extracting the essence from the sarsaparilla roots. It’s easier to buy it pre-made, if possible.

So there you have it – my go-to summer cooler! I hope you enjoy making and drinking this as much as my family and I do. Let me know in the comments if you try it, and what variations you come up with! Happy sipping!