Panakam: Andhra's Divine Summer Nectar
This ancient jaggery-lime drink, infused with cardamom and dry ginger, is served in temples and homes across Andhra Pradesh during scorching summers - a perfect balance of sweet, tangy and spicy flavors that cools the body instantly.
Prep Time
10 mins (plus 30 mins chilling)
Cook Time
5 mins
Servings
4 people
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated jaggery (gur/bellam)
- 4 cups water
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dry ginger powder (sonti)
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper powder (optional)
- Pinch of edible camphor (pacha karpooram)
Traditional Additions:
- 2-3 tulsi (holy basil) leaves
- 1 tsp chopped vetiver roots (useful in extreme heat)
- Silver leaf (varak) for temple offerings
Serving Suggestions:
- In brass or silver cups
- With crushed edible camphor ice cubes
- Garnished with saffron strands
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Jaggery Syrup
1. Heat 1 cup water in pan and add grated jaggery.
2. Stir on low heat until completely dissolved (3-4 mins).
3. Strain through muslin to remove impurities.
4. Let cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Infuse Flavors
1. Add remaining 3 cups water to jaggery syrup.
2. Mix in dry ginger, cardamom and black pepper.
3. Add tulsi leaves and vetiver if using.
4. Stir in lemon juice gradually.
Step 3: Rest & Serve
1. Add pinch of edible camphor just before serving.
2. Chill for 30 mins in earthen pot for enhanced flavor.
3. Pour into traditional metal cups over ice.
4. Garnish with saffron for special occasions.
Pro Tips
- Jaggery Quality: Use dark palm jaggery for authentic Andhra flavor
- Temperature Control: Never refrigerate - cool naturally in earthenware
- Ayurvedic Boost: Add 1 tsp coriander seed powder for extra cooling
- Temple Style: Use tulsi-infused water for ritual preparations
- Summer Relief: Increase dry ginger during heatwaves for heatstroke prevention
Fascinating Facts
1. Temple Science
Served in Tirumala Temple as it helps maintain body temperature during darshan queues
2. Ancient Recipe
Mentioned in 12th century Kakatiya dynasty records as "Panakamu"
3. Farmer's Shield
Andhra farmers carry it in bamboo containers to prevent dehydration
4. Ayurvedic Wisdom
The jaggery-lime-ginger combination balances all three doshas
5. Festival Connection
Essential during Rama Navami as it's believed to be Lord Rama's favorite drink
6. Microbial Benefits
The copper vessels traditionally used help purify water naturally
7. Colonial History
British officers in Madras Presidency adopted it as their "Indian lemonade"
Panakam - where every sip carries centuries of Andhra's wisdom to conquer summer heat!
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