### Bel Ka Sharbat, Maredu Drink, How to Create Bael Syrup – Summer Beverages
As the summer warmth arrives, cool drinks become vital for staying refreshed and hydrated. Among these, Bel Ka Sharbat is a standout choice, offering both nutrition and delightful taste. This beverage comes from the Bael fruit, scientifically identified as *Aegle marmelos*, and is praised for its health advantages and distinct flavor.
#### Nutritional Advantages of Bael Fruit
The Bael tree is of great significance in Hinduism, with its leaves and fruit often utilized in rituals. The Bael fruit is loaded with nutritional benefits, serving as a potent remedy for a range of health concerns. It is regarded for alleviating acidity, ulcers, and gastric issues, while also acting as a cooling and detoxifying agent for the body. Furthermore, every aspect of the Bael tree has its uses; traditional medicine employs both the roots and leaves to address skin infections and digestive problems.
#### Making Bel Ka Sharbat
Bel Ka Sharbat can be prepared using either ripe Bael fruit or dried Bael (Maredu). Below are the methods for both variations:
**Using Dried Bael (Maredu)**
1. **Ingredients:**
– Dried Bael fruit (Maredu)
– Sugar (according to taste)
– Lemon juice
– Chilled water
– Ice cubes
2. **Method:**
– Rinse the dried Bael thoroughly and soak it overnight in water.
– The following morning, boil the soaked Bael with the water until it diminishes to half its original volume.
– Strain the blend and boil it again with sugar until it transforms into a syrup.
– For serving, pour 3 heaped tablespoons of the resultant Bel syrup into a tall glass, mix in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and top off with chilled water. Add ice cubes and savor.
**Using Ripe Bael Fruit**
1. **Ingredients:**
– Ripe Bael fruit
– Sugar or jaggery (based on preference)
– Roasted cumin powder
– Black salt (a pinch)
– Chilled water
– Ice cubes
2. **Method:**
– Crack open the ripe Bael and extract the pulp with a spoon.
– Soak the pulp in a cup of water for a few moments, then mash it with your hands to release the juice.
– Strain to remove seeds and blend the pulp into a creamy mixture.
– Incorporate sugar or jaggery, roasted cumin powder, black salt, and chilled water into the blended pulp. Stir thoroughly.
– Pour into tall glasses, throw in some ice cubes, and serve.
#### Availability of Maredu
Maredu, or dried Bael, can usually be located at local Ayurveda medical shops. In areas such as Vizag, it is available at outlets like Pachipulusu Venkata Sannaiah & Sons and Sri Sambasiva Ayurvedic Centre in Kurupam Market. Moreover, ready-made Bel syrup can also be bought from these establishments. Juice vendors in Vizag, especially around Kurupam Market, frequently offer Maredu drinks, making it easy for those seeking a revitalizing summer drink.
### Conclusion
Bel Ka Sharbat and Maredu drinks are not only tasty but are also packed with health benefits, making them excellent summer refreshments. Whether opting for dried Bael or ripe fruit, these beverages are simple to concoct and deliver a cooling sensation during warm days. Relish the nutritional benefits of Bael this summer!