Summer Foods in India

Summer in India is super hot with daytime temperatures around 106 °F. In coastal areas, the humidity makes the temperature even more unbearable. We eat several foods to keep ourselves cool.

• Curd

We eat curd to keep ourselves cool and many Indians tend to eat it after every meal. Some people even add salt to their curd. There are several ways to prepare curd, including a liquid form called Lassi. Lassi can be made sweet or spicy (buttermilk). Many people add fruits to Lassi to make it sweet, like a smoothie.

• Lime Water (Nimboo Pani)

This is basically lemonade, but Indians tend to add salt or sugar to this as well. It is good at replenishing electrolytes.

• Coconut Water

In India, there are vendors who sell whole coconuts on the streets! They slice the top of the coconut off, and you can drink the water on the inside. It tastes very good and keeps you hydrated.

• Barley Water

It is known to flush out toxins and Indians tend to drink this when the weather gets really hot.

• Mint

This is also a popular choice because it is added to many foods, especially raita (a form of curd) and other dishes. Many houses prepare mint chutney, and it makes a great combination with samosas. Mint keeps you cool and refreshed.

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“10 Best Cooling Foods for the Indian Summer - Times of India.” The Times of India, The Times of India, 7 Nov. 2017, timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/diet/10-best-cooling-foods-for-the-indian-summer/articleshow/19946397.cms.