8 Regional Summer meals from India to beat the heat

India, with its diverse climates and culinary traditions, offers a plethora of refreshing dishes perfect for hot summer days. From cooling drinks to light meals packed with flavor and nutrition, here are 8 regional summer meals from different parts of India that will help you stay cool and satisfied:

Aam Panna
Aam Panna is a tangy and refreshing drink made from raw mangoes, sugar or jaggery, and flavored with roasted cumin and mint. It’s known for its cooling properties and is a popular choice during scorching summers.

Neer Mor
Neer Mor, also known as Buttermilk, is a traditional South Indian drink made by diluting yogurt with water and flavored with curry leaves, ginger, and green chilies. It aids digestion and helps beat the heat effectively.



Pani Puri
Pani Puri, a beloved street food from Western India (especially Mumbai), consists of crispy hollow puris filled with spicy-tangy tamarind water, boiled potatoes, chickpeas, and mint-cilantro chutney. It’s a delightful and cooling snack enjoyed during hot days.


Sattu Ka Sharbat
Hailing from Bihar and parts of Eastern India, Sattu Ka Sharbat is a nutritious drink made from roasted gram flour (sattu), lemon juice, sugar, salt, and water. It’s known for its cooling effect and is often consumed to beat the summer heat.


Kokum Saar
Kokum Saar is a refreshing Konkani drink made from kokum fruit (Garcinia indica), which is soaked in water to release its tangy flavor. It’s served chilled and is believed to aid digestion and cool the body.


Dahi Vada
Dahi Vada consists of deep-fried lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt and topped with tangy tamarind chutney, mint chutney, and spices. It’s a popular dish during summers as the yogurt and spices provide a cooling effect.



Bhel Puri
Bhel Puri is another famous street food from Western India, particularly Mumbai. It’s a savory snack made with puffed rice, chopped vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes, tangy tamarind chutney, and spices. It’s light, crunchy, and perfect for hot weather.


Shrikhand
Shrikhand is a creamy and sweet dessert made from strained yogurt (hung curd), flavored with saffron, cardamom, and sugar. It’s chilled and served as a dessert or side dish during summer months, providing a delightful and cooling treat.


Conclusion
These regional summer meals from India not only provide relief from the heat but also showcase the rich culinary diversity of the country. Whether you’re sipping on Aam Panna in the north or enjoying Kokum Saar on the west coast, these dishes offer a blend of flavors, textures, and cooling ingredients that make them perfect companions for hot summer days. Embrace these refreshing delicacies to stay cool, hydrated, and satisfied throughout the summer season.