### Sabja Lemonade – Sweet Basil Seeds Lemon Drink
Sabja lemonade, alternatively referred to as sweet basil seeds lemonade, ranks among the most nutritious drinks for the summer season. Crafted using sabja seeds, which originate from the sweet basil plant (scientific classification: Ocimum basilicum), this invigorating drink presents a distinct crunchy sensation along with an array of health advantages. In India, these seeds are widely recognized as sabja or falooda seeds, and in various locales, they are called tukmaria. In Telugu, they are termed sabja ginjalu.
#### Health Benefits of Sabja Seeds
Sabja seeds come from the maruwa or rudra jada plant, which is part of the tulsi family. It’s crucial to understand that they should not be mistaken for holy basil or tulsi. The health perks of sabja seeds are vast:
– **Antioxidant Rich**: They assist in fighting oxidative stress in the body.
– **Cooling Effect**: Sabja seeds are acknowledged for their body-cooling properties, making them perfect for warm summer days.
– **Digestive Aid**: They support digestion and can help relieve constipation.
– **Medicinal Properties**: Ayurvedic literature states that sabja seeds may aid in curing colds, skin ailments, and respiratory issues. They are particularly valuable for balancing excess pitta dosha, which can result in heightened body heat.
When immersed in water, sabja seeds expand and acquire a tapioca-like look, becoming crunchy upon biting. Their mild taste renders them adaptable, making them suitable for inclusion in various beverages, juices, or desserts. A well-known dessert, falooda, is incomplete without these seeds.
#### How to Make Sabja Lemonade
To make sabja lemonade, adhere to these straightforward steps:
**Ingredients:**
– 2 tablespoons of sabja seeds
– 2 cups of water (for soaking)
– 1 cup of fresh lemon juice
– 4 cups of cold water (for the lemonade)
– 4-6 tablespoons of sugar or honey (customize to preference)
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Lemon slices and mint leaves for garnishing
**Instructions:**
1. **Soak the Sabja Seeds**: In a bowl, place 2 tablespoons of sabja seeds into 2 cups of water. Allow them to soak for approximately 30 minutes, or until they expand and become gelatinous.
2. **Prepare the Lemonade**: In a sizeable pitcher, mix 1 cup of fresh lemon juice with 4 cups of cold water, adding sugar or honey. Stir thoroughly until the sugar completely dissolves.
3. **Combine**: Once the sabja seeds are prepared, drain any surplus water and incorporate the bloomed sabja seeds into the lemonade mixture. Stir gently to blend.
4. **Serve**: Pour the sabja lemonade into glasses over ice cubes, if desired. Decorate with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for an invigorating finish.
5. **Enjoy**: Serve instantly and relish the cooling benefits of this wholesome summer drink.
#### Conclusion
Sabja lemonade is not only a tasty and refreshing beverage but also a wealth of health advantages. Adding sabja seeds to your summer drinks can help keep you cool and hydrated while indulging in the distinctive texture and flavor they offer. The next time you prepare lemonade or any summer sharbat, think about incorporating sabja seeds for an enhanced experience.