### Jigarthanda Recipe: A Unique Beverage from Madurai Ideal for Scorching Summer Days
Jigarthanda, a charming and revitalizing drink from Madurai, serves as an excellent antidote to the intense summer warmth. Renowned for its distinct flavors and refreshing qualities, this milk-based drink has become a cherished specialty throughout Tamil Nadu, often called “jil jil jigarthanda.” Its origins are linked to the Mughal presence in South India, and it has developed into a favored option in numerous restaurants and beverage shops.
#### Essential Ingredients
The key components of jigarthanda consist of:
1. **Reduced Full-Fat Milk**: This milk is simmered slowly until it thickens and reduces to half its initial quantity, giving the drink a rich, light brown hue and taste.
2. **Reduced Milk Ice Cream**: Typically crafted from the same reduced milk, it contributes a smooth texture. Pre-packaged vanilla ice cream serves as a practical substitute.
3. **Badam Pisin (Edible Almond Gum)**: This natural cooling agent comes from the almond tree’s bark. The gum forms small, hard pellets that, when soaked in water, change into a jelly-like consistency. It is recognized for its health benefits and aids in increasing weight in children.
4. **Nannari Syrup**: Derived from Sarsaparilla root, this syrup is not just fragrant but also acts as a diuretic and body cooler, helping to avert heat strokes. Nannari syrup can be homemade or obtained from local Ayurvedic shops.
#### Directions to Prepare
1. **Reduce the Milk**: Start by heating full-fat milk on low flame, stirring intermittently until it diminishes to half of its initial volume. While this may take a while, it is crucial for attaining the preferred taste and texture.
2. **Prepare Badam Pisin**: Soak the badam pisin in water for a few hours until it expands and becomes gelatinous.
3. **Make Nannari Syrup**: If you are not using commercially available syrup, create nannari syrup by boiling Sarsaparilla roots in water, straining it, and sweetening as desired.
4. **Assemble the Drink**: In a tall glass, layer the reduced milk, the soaked badam pisin, a generous scoop of reduced milk ice cream, and a drizzle of nannari syrup.
5. **Serve Chilled**: Stir well before serving, and savor this refreshing beverage chilled.
#### Serving Recommendations
Jigarthanda can be relished as a standalone drink or as a dessert after meals. Its distinctive blend of flavors and textures turns it into a luxurious treat for any event. If badam pisin is not available, it can be replaced by china grass or agar-agar.
#### Final Thoughts
This summer, consider crafting jigarthanda at home and incorporate this delightful drink into your collection of Indian beverages. Its refreshing attributes and rich flavors render it an ideal selection for warm days, ensuring you remain rejuvenated and content. Relish the essence of Madurai with every sip!