New Delhi: Shikanji, an Indian cooling beverage, is a refreshing summer drink that helps in cooling down as well as aids digestion. The secret to its refreshing taste lies in the Shikanji Masala, which has a mix of tangy, spicy, and aromatic ingredients that help enhance its flavour. While they are ready-made masalas available in the market, it is very easy to prepare a home-made shikanji masala at home that is more flavourful and loaded with goodness.

This masala is prepared by mixing black salt, roasted cumin, black pepper, dry ginger, and chaat masala, etc. This mix leads to a perfect balance of saltiness, tanginess, and mildly spicy flavours. This masala not only makes Shikanji tasty but also helps in digestion, keeps the body hydrated, and keeps energy levels high during hot weather. Not only shikanji, but this masala can be used in other drinks, fruit juices, and can even be sprinkled over fresh-cut fruits for an extra flavour!

How to make homemade shikanji masala?

Shikanji Masala is the spice blend that adds a perfect ratio of spice and saltiness, which makes every sip more satisfying. Instead of the store-bought bottle, making it at home provides purity and freshness.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp black salt
1 tbsp roasted cumin powder
1 tbsp white salt (or as per taste)
1 tbsp sugar (optional, for balance)
1½ tsp black pepper powder
1½ tsp dried mint powder (optional, for freshness)
1 tsp dry ginger powder (saunth)
½ tsp chat masala
½ tsp asafoetida (hing) (optional)

Instructions:

Dry roast the cumin seeds until they start giving off some aroma.

Let them cool for some time and grind them to make a fine powder.

In a mixing bowl, add all the dry ingredients such as roasted cumin powder, black salt, white salt, black pepper, dry ginger powder, chaat masala, sugar, mint powder, and asafoetida.

Transfer the prepared shikanji masala to an airtight container and store it in a cool and dry place.

How to use Shikanji masala?

In a glass of fresh lime water, add ½ to 1 tsp of this masala.

Mix it well and add ice cubes to it.

Enjoy the cooling and digestive summer drink.

The prepared shikanji masala will stay fresh for 3-4 months.

Making the Shikanji Masala at home is easy, as it requires just a few basic ingredients that are always available in the kitchen, and it stays fresh for 3-4 months. With this homemade mixture, it is easy to prepare a refreshing glass of Shikanji anytime, which ensures a healthy, flavourful, and hydrating summer drink.