### Bel Ka Sharbat: An Invigorating Drink for Summer
With the summer temperatures rising, it is crucial to have access to refreshing and healthy drinks. One such enjoyable beverage is Bel Ka Sharbat, crafted from the Bael fruit (Aegle marmelos), recognized for its various health advantages. This article discusses the preparation of Bel syrup, the importance of this drink, and its nutritional content.
#### Health Advantages of Bael Fruit
The Bael tree is revered in Hinduism, and its leaves and fruit are frequently utilized in religious ceremonies. Known as the Stone Apple, the Bael fruit is abundant in nutrients and has therapeutic qualities. It is recognized to:
– Support digestion and ease gastrointestinal issues.
– Assist in alleviating acidity and ulcers.
– Refresh and purify the body.
– Treat skin infections and digestive problems through its roots and leaves.
#### Making Bel Syrup
Bel syrup can be prepared with either dried Bael fruit or ripe Bael fruit. The method is somewhat laborious but uncomplicated.
**Using Dried Bael (Maredu):**
1. **Soaking:** Rinse the dried Bael fruit thoroughly and let it soak in water overnight.
2. **Boiling:** The following day, boil the soaked Bael along with the water until it reduces to half its original volume.
3. **Straining:** Strain the mixture to eliminate solids.
4. **Sweetening:** Boil the strained liquid with sugar until it thickens into a brown syrup.
**Using Ripe Bael Fruit:**
1. **Extracting Pulp:** Open the ripe Bael and remove the pulp.
2. **Soaking:** Place the pulp in a cup of water for several minutes, then knead it with your hands.
3. **Straining:** Strain to discard seeds and blend the pulp into a smooth consistency.
4. **Mixing:** Combine sugar or jaggery, roasted cumin powder, a pinch of black salt, and chilled water with the blended pulp. Mix thoroughly.
#### Serving Bel Ka Sharbat
To serve Bel Ka Sharbat, adhere to these steps:
1. Pour 3 generous tablespoons of prepared Bel syrup into a tall glass.
2. Incorporate 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
3. Fill the glass with chilled water and add ice cubes.
4. Stir well and relish!
#### Availability of Maredu
Maredu, or dried Bael fruit, can be sourced from local Ayurvedic medical shops. In Vizag, it can be found at Pachipulusu Venkata Sannaiah & Sons and Sri Sambasiva Ayurvedic Centre in Kurupam Market. Additionally, ready-made Bel syrup can also be acquired from these locations. Juice vendors in Vizag, particularly in the Kurupam Market vicinity, offer Maredu drinks, making it readily available.
### Conclusion
Bel Ka Sharbat is not just a tasty thirst quencher but also a nutritional powerhouse. Whether made from dried or ripe Bael fruit, this beverage is ideal for cooling off during the warm summer months while offering various health benefits. Savor this traditional drink and stay invigorated!