5 millet-based drinks perfect for Indian summers

Don’t feel like eating a heavy meal in the summer? Then replace them with some healthy and tasty millet-based drinks, which can make for a refreshing yet healthy meal replacement drink. There’s no denying that millets have been a quintessential part of the Indian diet, but millets are mostly consumed in the form of roti, porridge or sweet delights. But do you know there are certain millet drinks that are equally nutritious? Read on to find out…

This refreshing drink combines the cooling qualities of buttermilk with the nutrition of ragi (finger millet). Lightly spiced with green chilies, ginger, and curry leaves, it’s both hydrating and rich in calcium and iron. Served chilled, it makes for an excellent mid-morning or post-lunch cooler that also aids digestion.

This is a traditional South Indian summer drink made by cooking ragi flour into a thin porridge and mixing it with water, salt, and buttermilk. It’s cooling, packed with minerals, and known for controlling body heat. You can also prepare a sweet version using jaggery and cardamom.

Bajra flour, when lightly roasted and mixed with a tangy jaljeera base, creates a spicy, earthy summer drink. This blend not only cools the body but also boosts metabolism and helps fight summer fatigue. Add a dash of lemon juice and mint for a zesty twist.

Cooked jowar can be blended with curd or nut milk, bananas, and honey to create a hearty, smoothie-style beverage. It’s filling, energizing, and works great as a breakfast-on-the-go. Plus, jowar helps regulate body temperature and supports digestion just what your body needs in the heat.

Barnyard millet, soaked and blended with lemon juice, rock salt, and a touch of jaggery, makes for a zesty, energizing sherbet. This drink helps prevent dehydration, supports weight management, and gives a satisfying post-lunch energy lift.