Thursday, April 11, 2019

KHARBUJA PAANAKA

KHARBUJA PAANAKA

In the summer months, anything cool is most welcome. In the South of India, we make a drink which we call "Paanaka" which is usually made with lemon.

Today's paanaka is made using muskmelon, which is a fruit most commonly available in the summer. We call muskmelon "Kharbuja" in Kannada so today's drink is called "Kharbuja Paanaka." You can make this as thick or dilute depending upon your preference. I, for one, would opt for the thicker version.

It is advisable to blend the pulp first and later add the water in a separate vessel as adding the water in the blender itself may not be feasible. Once you add water, you can bring it to the consistency you desire. After adding water, it is better to check for sweetness before you serve the paanaka because the taste would also depend on the sweetness of the muskmelon.



Ingredients:-
  • Muskmelon, 500 gms
  • Jaggery, grated, 1/2 cup, or to taste
  • Salt, a large pinch
  • Black Pepper Powder, 1/4 tsp
  • Cardamom Powder, made from 1-2 Cardamom/Elachi Pods
  • Lemon Juice, 1 tsp
  • Water, 1 and 1/2 to 2 cups

Method:- 

Wash and cut the muskmelon into two halves.
 Remove and discard the core and seeds. Remove the muskmelon pulp using a scoop or a spoon and keep aside.
In a mixer jar, blend together the muskmelon pulp along with the grated jaggery, a pinch of salt, black pepper powder and cardamom powder
Transfer to a vessel, to this add 1 and 1/2 to 2 cups of water and mix well
(The amount of water you add will depend on the consistency you desire)
Check for sweetness
Lastly, add the lemon juice and mix well again
Serve chilled




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