Jal - Zeera

Cumin seeds are known as Jeeraka in Sanskrit - that which digests. This drink has cooling properties to beat the summer heat. It balances all 3 Doshas and has all 6 tastes. Lemon is sour,astringent, Cumin is bitter and pungent. Black Salt has the salty taste and pungent with hydrating and lubricating properties. Use a sugar substitute that suits your dosha. Maple syrup for Pitta, Honey for Kapha and Jaggery for Vata.

Ingredients

4 servings

1 tbsp Cumin Seed

1 tsp Cumin (Roasted powder)

4 cups Water (or 1 Litre)

1 Lemon (Juiced)

2 tbsps Jaggery

1 Handful Mint Leaves

1 Handful Fresh Coriander

1/3 tsp Black Salt (Optional) Use Himalayan salt instead

Directions

Boil the cumin seeds in the water. Once it comes to a full boil about 15 minutes, turn off the heat and leave the seeds steeping for another 20 minutes.

Strain the seeds. Add the powdered cumin and lemon juice. Add the sugar substitute once the mixture is luke warm.

Take 1/2 a cup of the cumin water and using a hand blender mix the coriander and mint leaves. Add to the cumin water. Finally add salt and add more sweet or sour based on your own taste.

Enjoy this refreshing drink and get the health benefits too!