Kesar Panna is a refreshing Indian summer drink made with saffron (kesar) and raw mangoes. It’s a cool and tangy beverage that is both flavourful and rejuvenating. Here’s a simple recipe for making Kesar Panna:
Ingredients:
~ 2 medium-sized raw mangoes
~ 1 cup sugar (adjust according to taste)
~ A pinch of saffron strands (kesar)
~ 1/2 teaspoon black salt
~ 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
~ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder
~ 1 tablespoon chopped mint leaves (optional)
~ Ice cubes for serving
~ Chilled water
Instructions:
1. Wash the raw mangoes thoroughly. Boil or steam them until they become soft and the skin can be easily peeled off.
2. Once the mangoes are cooked, let them cool. Peel the skin and extract the pulp, discarding the seeds.
3. In a blender, combine the raw mango pulp, sugar, saffron strands, black salt, roasted cumin powder, black pepper powder, and chopped mint leaves.
4. Blend the mixture until you get a smooth puree. You can adjust the sugar and spice levels according to your taste.
5. Strain the puree to remove any fiber’s and obtain a smoother consistency.
6. Add chilled water to the strained mango puree and mix well. Adjust the water quantity based on your preferred thickness for the drink.
7. Refrigerate the Kesar Panna for at least 1-2 hours to chill it thoroughly.
8. Before serving, stir the drink well and pour it over ice cubes in glasses.
9. Garnish with a few saffron strands or mint leaves if desired.
1o. Serve the chilled Kesar Panna as a delightful and cooling summer beverage.
Kesar Panna is not only a great way to beat the heat but also provides the nutritional benefits of raw mangoes, along with the unique flavour of saffron and spices