Aam Panna is a classic Pakistan summer cooler that perfectly balances the sweet and tangy flavors of raw mangoes with a delightful blend of spices. This refreshing drink is not only a thirst quencher but also packed with essential nutrients. In this recipe, we will guide you through making Aam Panna, a perfect remedy for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
- 2 raw mangoes
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of black salt (kala namak)
- 1/2 teaspoon of roasted cumin powder
- A pinch of black pepper
- A few mint leaves (for garnish)
- Ice cubes (optional)
Directions:
1. Boiling the Raw Mangoes:
- Wash and peel the raw mangoes. Cut them into chunks and remove the seeds.
- In a pot, add the mango chunks and enough water to cover them.
- Boil the mangoes until they become soft and can be easily mashed. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
2. Preparing the Mango Puree:
- Allow the boiled mangoes to cool down.
- Blend the mango chunks into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor.
3. Making Aam Panna Concentrate:
- In a separate saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar with an equal amount of water.
- Heat the sugar-water mixture until it dissolves completely, creating a simple syrup.
- Add the mango puree to the simple syrup and stir well.
4. Adding Flavors:
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of black salt (kala namak), 1/2 teaspoon of roasted cumin powder, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Adjust the spices to your taste.
5. Chilling the Aam Panna:
- Allow the Aam Panna concentrate to cool and then refrigerate it for at least 2-3 hours.
6. Serving Aam Panna:
- When serving, dilute the Aam Panna concentrate with cold water, adjusting the ratio to suit your preferred sweetness and thickness.
- Add ice cubes for extra chill if desired.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve.
Conclusion:
Aam Panna is not only a delicious and refreshing summer beverage but also a great source of Vitamin C and essential nutrients. It’s a delightful way to stay cool and hydrated during scorching days.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
1. Can I use ripe mangoes for Aam Panna?
- Aam Panna is traditionally made with raw mangoes to get the tangy flavor. Ripe mangoes will result in a sweeter version.
2. Is it necessary to add spices like black salt and cumin?
- These spices enhance the flavor of Aam Panna, but you can adjust or omit them according to your preference.
3. How long can I store Aam Panna concentrate?
- You can store the concentrate in the refrigerator for up to a week. Dilute it with water when serving.
4. Can I use jaggery instead of sugar?
- Yes, you can substitute sugar with jaggery for a healthier option.
5. What is the ideal consistency for Aam Panna?
- The consistency can be adjusted by varying the amount of water you add when diluting the concentrate. It’s a matter of personal preference.
