Beat the Heat: 10 Drinks to Keep You Refreshed All Summer

News desk 

Islamabad: Staying cool and hydrated becomes a top priority when the sun blazes relentlessly and the temperature refuses to drop in Pakistan.

In such scorching conditions, refreshing drinks are not just luxuries but necessities. Finding comfort in cooling beverages isn’t merely a preference but an essential need.

Here are ten delightful drinks that promise to keep you cool and refreshed:

Lemonade

A timeless favorite, lemonade in Pakistan often gets a twist with a touch of black salt or cumin powder, creating a tangy refresher perfect for hot days. Whether served ice-cold to beat the heat or infused with herbs for a gourmet touch, lemonade remains a classic choice that never fails to please and revitalize.

Rooh Afza

 

During Ramadan and the summer season, the vibrant red syrup of Rooh Afza, when mixed with water or milk, gains popularity. Its distinctive blend of herbs and fruits provides a sweet, rose-scented relief from the heat.

Apart from its taste, Rooh Afza is esteemed for its perceived health benefits. Traditionally believed to possess cooling properties, it’s a favored choice on hot summer days to alleviate discomfort associated with heat. Additionally, its high sugar content positions it as a reputed energy source.

Sugarcane Juice

Found commonly on Pakistani roadsides, freshly squeezed sugarcane juice, enhanced with a hint of lemon and ginger, is not only refreshing but also nutrient-packed.

Recognized for its high water content and natural sweetness, sugarcane juice is considered a healthful beverage. Laden with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium, it offers numerous benefits. However, it’s advisable to consume sugarcane juice in moderation owing to its elevated natural sugar levels.

Mango Shake

The king of fruits, mangoes, takes center stage during Pakistan’s summer season. When blended with milk and a dash of sugar, a chilled mango shake emerges as a nutritious and deeply satisfying beverage. Mangoes boast a richness in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, notably vitamin C and vitamin A. Milk contributes protein and calcium, rendering the shake a fulfilling and wholesome choice.

Falooda

More akin to a dessert drink, Falooda comprises rose syrup, vermicelli, sweet basil seeds, and ice cream. It stands as a beloved indulgence offering cool relief on sweltering days.

Whether savored as a decadent dessert during hot summer months or as a delightful treat year-round, Falooda remains a cherished and refreshing delight in Pakistani cuisine, owing to its amalgamation of textures, flavors, and hues.

Podina Chai

In hot weather, Podina (mint) chai offers a refreshing twist that defies expectations. Mint’s cooling properties invigorate both body and senses, making it a delightful option for a summer beverage.

Watermelon Juice

Abundant during summer, watermelons provide the perfect opportunity for a glass of cold watermelon juice, incredibly hydrating and refreshing, ideal for replenishing lost fluids on scorching days.

Sattu

Derived from roasted chickpeas, sattu is a nutritious flour often blended with other grains like barley or millet. Mixed with water and a few spices, it creates a filling beverage that cools the body, serving as a traditional remedy for staying cool and energized during heatwaves.

Coconut Water

Extracted from young green coconuts, coconut water is a natural, refreshing beverage known as nature’s energy drink. Easily available from vendors nationwide, it not only refreshes but also replenishes essential electrolytes.

Lassi

This traditional yogurt-based beverage is a must-have in Pakistani households during the summer. Whether you enjoy it sweetened with sugar or savory with a hint of salt and cumin, lassi offers a creamy indulgence that brings relief to the body and comfort to the soul.

Each of these drinks offers a unique taste of Pakistani culture and a delicious method to beat the heat. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, trying these refreshing beverages is essential for enduring the Pakistani heatwave with a smile!