Bel Sharbat (Wood Apple Juice) – Traditional Indian Summer Drink for Digestion & Cooling
Bel Sharbat is a traditional Indian summer drink made from the pulp of ripe wood apples (bael fruit). It is cooling, nutritious, and excellent for digestion and gut health.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe bael fruit (wood apple)
- 3 cups chilled water
- 2 tbsp jaggery or sugar (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black salt (optional, for taste)
- ¼ tsp roasted cumin powder (optional)
- 1–2 mint leaves or lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Crack open the bael fruit and scoop out the pulp into a mixing bowl.
- Add 1½ to 2 cups of water and mash the pulp well using your hands or a spoon.
- Let it soak for 10 minutes.
- Strain the pulp through a sieve or muslin cloth to extract the juice.
- Add jaggery or sugar and mix until dissolved.
- Stir in black salt and roasted cumin powder if using.
- Add more water if needed to adjust the consistency.
- Pour into glasses, garnish with mint or lemon, and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use fully ripe bael fruit with a soft shell and sweet aroma for best taste.
- You can refrigerate the juice for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving.
- Avoid using unripe bael as it may cause stomach issues.