Bael Sharbat, derived from the pulp of the bael fruit, is a quintessential summer cooler in India known for its refreshing taste and health benefits. Here’s a simple recipe to make this rejuvenating drink at home:
Ingredients:
- Bael (wood apple) fruit: 1 ripe
- Water: 2 cups
- Sugar or jaggery: 2-3 tablespoons
- Black salt or rock salt: a pinch
- Ice cubes: for serving
- Fresh mint leaves: for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bael Pulp:
- Thoroughly wash the bael fruit under running water.
- Crack open the fruit using a knife or a hammer. Remove the pulp and seeds inside.
- Scrape the pulp with a spoon and place it in a bowl.
2. Make the Bael Sharbat:
- In a blender or mixer, add the bael pulp along with water.
- Mix it thoroughly until a smooth consistency is achieved.
3. Sweeten and Season:
- Pour the blended bael mixture through a fine sieve or strainer into a bowl to remove any remaining seeds or fibers.
- Add sugar or jaggery to the strained bael juice according to your sweetness preference.
- Mix well until the sweetener dissolves completely.
- Add a pinch of black salt or rock salt to enhance the flavor.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the bael sharbat for at least 1-2 hours to chill.
- Before serving, stir the sharbat well.
- Pour it into glasses filled with ice cubes for a refreshing chill.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
- Garnish each glass with fresh mint leaves for a delightful aroma and added freshness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the cooling benefits of this homemade bael sharbat.
Health Benefits:
- Bael fruit is rich in nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
- It aids in digestion and helps relieve digestive disorders such as constipation.
- The drink is known for its cooling properties, making it ideal for combating heat-related issues during summer.