Jaljeera is a tangy, spicy, and super-refreshing Indian drink made with spices, mint, and lemon. It’s great for digestion and perfect to beat the heat 🔥❄️
🧾 Ingredients
- 🌿 Fresh mint leaves – ½ cup
- 🌱 Fresh coriander leaves – ¼ cup
- 🧄 Ginger – 1 inch piece
- 🍋 Lemon juice – 2 tbsp (or as per taste)
- 🌶️ Green chili – 1 small (optional)
- 🧂 Black salt (kala namak) – 1 tsp
- 🧂 Roasted cumin powder – 1 tsp
- 🟤 Chaat masala – 1 tsp
- 🟡 Dry mango powder (amchur) – ½ tsp (optional)
- 🧊 Cold water – 3–4 cups
- 🍯 Jaggery or sugar – 1–2 tsp (optional, to balance flavors)
- 🧊 Ice cubes – as needed
- 🍋 Lemon slices or mint – for garnish
👩🍳 How to Make It
- Make the spice paste
In a blender, add:- Mint leaves
- Coriander leaves
- Ginger
- Green chili
- Lemon juice
- Black salt, cumin powder, chaat masala, amchur
- Add a little water and blend into a smooth paste
- Strain it (optional)
If you like a smoother drink, strain the mixture using a fine sieve or muslin cloth. - Mix the drink
- Pour the paste into a large bowl or jug
- Add cold water and jaggery/sugar if using
- Mix well, adjust salt and spice to taste
- Serve chilled
- Add ice cubes
- Garnish with lemon slices or mint sprigs
- Optional: Add a few boondi (crunchy fried chickpea balls) on top for texture
🌟 Tips & Variations
- For extra zing, add a pinch of ground pepper or hing (asafoetida)
- Store the paste in the fridge for 2–3 days and mix fresh whenever needed
- Great as a welcome drink or digestive shot after meals
