Sattu Sharbat: Bihar's Power-Packed Thirst Quencher
This rustic drink made from roasted gram flour is Bihar's answer to summer heat - a nutritious blend of earthy flavors, cooling spices and instant energy, traditionally carried in brass tumblers by farmers.
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
2 mins
Servings
2 people
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp sattu (roasted gram flour)
- 1.5 cups chilled water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp black salt
- 1/2 tsp regular salt
- 1 tsp chopped mint leaves
For Tempering (Optional):
- 1 tsp mustard oil
- 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- 1 green chili, chopped
Traditional Garnish:
- Ice cubes made from mango wood smoked water
- Sattu ladoo crumbs
- Fresh coriander sprigs
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Base
1. In a matka (earthen pot) or glass, whisk sattu with 1/4 cup water to make smooth paste.
2. Add remaining water gradually while stirring to prevent lumps.
3. Add lemon juice, cumin powder, both salts and mint.
Step 2: Prepare Tempering (Optional)
1. Heat mustard oil until smoking point then cool slightly.
2. Add asafoetida and green chili, let sizzle for 5 seconds.
3. Immediately pour over sattu mixture and cover for 1 minute.
Step 3: Final Preparation
1. Stir well and adjust consistency (traditionally slightly thick).
2. Add smoked water ice cubes if available.
3. Pour into brass glasses or kulhads for authentic experience.
Step 4: Serving Style
1. Garnish with sattu ladoo crumbs and coriander.
2. Serve immediately with pakoras or chura-dahi for complete Bihari experience.
Pro Tips
- Sattu Selection: Use stone-ground sattu for authentic texture and flavor.
- Temperature Control: Always use chilled water - never refrigerate after preparation.
- Farmer's Boost: Add 1 tsp gur (jaggery) for instant energy during fieldwork.
- Digestive Version: Replace water with buttermilk for heavy meals.
- Summer Twist: Add 1 tbsp pulp of raw mango for tangy variation.
Fascinating Facts
1. Ancient Energy Drink
Mentioned in Buddhist texts as "Sattu-pind" carried by monks for sustenance during travels.
2. Soldier's Ration
Used by Chandragupta Maurya's army as lightweight, non-perishable protein source.
3. Thermal Regulation
The roasted gram flour helps maintain core body temperature in extreme heat.
4. Caste Neutral Food
Historically consumed across all social strata in Bihar - from landlords to laborers.
5. NASA Recognition
Studied as potential astronaut food due to high protein and long shelf life.
6. Festival Connection
Essential during Chhath Puja as prasad after holy river offerings.
7. Microbial Benefits
The fermentation during traditional sattu preparation creates natural probiotics.
Sattu Sharbat - where Bihari ingenuity transforms humble gram flour into liquid gold!
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