Nothing to beat the sweltering hot summer than a glass of cold,zesty yet healthy juice or sarbath. And if you happened to be in South India, a glass of Nannari Sarbath definitely gives that zing and pep to beat the hot scorching rays. I had never heard of this drink, till the local fruit juice vendor introduced me to this “root” juice. He told me that after tasting it once , I will come back for more. And, he was right.
The Syrup:
“Nannari” or the Indian Sarsaparilla is a species of plant that is found in South Asia. It is a slender prostrate shrub with woody and aromatic roots. The Sarasaparilla roots are washed thoroughly and pounded in a mortar. The central white portion of the roots are discarded. The outer dark portion of the roots are dried in the sun for a day. When these roots are dry, they are then soaked in about 2 liters of water overnight. The liquid turns into a dark color. The next day, the roots are boiled in the same water that they were soaked in, till it is reduced to half of its original quantity.The liquid is strained through a cloth to remove particles and sediments.The strained liquid is then poured into another clean heavy bottomed vessel. To this liquid, sugar is added. It is stirred over low heat again till it turns slightly thick and sticky. On cooling the syrup can be transferred to a clean bottle.To preserve the syrup, a pinch of citric acid is added.
Image Courtesy: Sailu’s Food.
The Sarbath:
Ingredients:
Nanari Syrup- 2 tablespoons.
Lemon Juice- 1-1.5 tablespoons.
Salt(preferably black salt) as per taste.
Water.
Soda Water(optional).
Ice cubes – as required.
Pour two tablespoons of nannari syrup in a glass.Add 1-1.5 tablespoons of lemon juice, salt as per taste.Slowly add soda, stir slowly. Add ice cubes and serve chilled.
How does it help?
Besides being a coolant for the body, nannari which is also known as “Sugandhi” water in the coastal region of Andhra Pradesh, has other benefits as well.
– It is useful for urinary infection and a glass or two of this sarbath, is a natural home remedy.
– It relieves constipation.
– Blood purifier: Nannari root is an excellent blood purifier and health tonic.Mixed with a little jaggery,it acts as a natural tonic, giving a boost to one’s energy levels.
– Relieves body pain.
– Helps digestion.For those with stomach disorders,or lack of appetite, which is common in summer, a glass of this juice aids in the digestion.
So, cool away this summer, with a glass of Nannari Sarbath everyday, and do not let the hot summer rays effect you, over power you.
