Ice Apple Sharbat | Summer Drink
About Ice Apples
Ice apples, also known as palm fruit or tadgola, are a tropical fruit that flourishes in regions with warm climates. These unique fruits are the produce of the sugar palm tree, scientifically known as Borassus flabellifer. With their translucent and jelly-like flesh, ice apples are a refreshing treat during the scorching summer months.
Found predominantly in South Asia, ice apples are cherished for their mild sweetness and cooling properties. They are harvested during the summer season, typically from April to June, when they are at their peak ripeness. In India, ice apples are especially popular in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
Ice apples go by various names across different regions. In India, they are commonly referred to as “nongu” in Tamil, “tadgola” in Marathi, and “taati munjalu” in Telugu. These names reflect the cultural diversity of the regions where ice apples are consumed and enjoyed.
The process of harvesting ice apples involves climbing tall palm trees to collect the fruits from the clusters hanging at the top. Once harvested, the outer green shell of the fruit is removed to reveal the translucent and jelly-like interior. Ice apples are often consumed fresh, either on their own or incorporated into various dishes and beverages.
Aside from their delicious taste, ice apples offer several health benefits. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to one’s diet. Additionally, their high water content helps keep the body hydrated, making them an excellent choice for combating the heat of summer.
Recipe Ingredients:
- 4-5 ice apples
- Water or coconut water or soda
- Soaked sabja seeds (basil seeds)
- Salt
- Sugar
- Ice cubes
- Lemon juice
Preparation Process:
- Peel 4-5 apples and cut them into small pieces.
- Add the ice apple pieces into a mixer jar and blend them to make a smooth paste.
- Pour the ice apple paste into a bowl.
- Add water or coconut water or soda to the bowl, depending on your preference.
- Add soaked sabja seeds, a pinch of salt, and sugar to taste.
- Drop in a few ice cubes to keep the sharbat chilled.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the mixture.
- Mix everything well until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Serve the ice apple sharbat chilled and enjoy the cool, refreshing taste.
Tips for Storage:
To store ice apples, keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you’re not using them immediately, you can refrigerate them to prolong their freshness. When preparing the ice apple sharbat, ensure that the ice apples are ripe for the best flavor and texture.
Benefits of Ice Apple Sharbat:
- Hydration: With its high water content, ice apple sharbat helps keep you hydrated during hot summer days.
- Nutrient-rich: Ice apples are rich in vitamins and minerals, making this sharbat not only delicious but also nutritious.
- Refreshing: The cool and soothing taste of ice apple sharbat makes it a perfect thirst-quencher for summer gatherings or picnics.
Fo try this recipe and beat the summer heat with a glass of homemade ice apple sharbat. This refreshing beverage combines the unique flavor of ice apples with the tanginess of lemon juice, creating a delightful drink that will keep you cool and hydrated all summer long. Experiment with different variations of the recipe to suit your taste preferences and enjoy the goodness of ice apples in every sip. Cheers to a cool and refreshing summer with ice apple sharbat!
HAVE YOU TRIED THIS RECIPE?
RATE and COMMENT below! I would love to hear your experience.
