What is jaljeera?

North India’s long, hot and dry summers led to the development of several refreshing, healthy drinks with digestive properties. Jaljeera (jal = water, jeera = cumin) is a popular, easy-to-make cooler with herbs and spices common to most Indian kitchens. Cilantro and mint leaf pastes are combined with dry-roasted and ground cumin seeds, black salt (a.k.a. rock salt), a little lemon juice and sugar. Amchur or dried mango powder adds a sour tang to the mixture, which is diluted with plenty of water.

Serve a chilled glass of jaljeera with a sprig of mint. It can be stored for several days in the refrigerator.