Kokum Sharbat has long been celebrated in the Goan and Konkani cuisines for its delightful tanginess and remarkable ability to quench thirst on sweltering days. This unique beverage, rooted in traditional wisdom, harnesses the natural cooling properties of the kokum fruit, a beloved treasure of the Indian subcontinent. The Sparkling Kokum Sharbat elevates this traditional drink with a twist, incorporating sparkling water for a playful effervescence and enhancing its visual allure with vibrant garnishes. As the drink meets your lips, the initial tangy sweetness of kokum unfurls, leaving a refreshing aftertaste that dances on the palate. The aroma is fruity and inviting, with hints of earthy spices that promise an escape to the tropical shores of Goa with every sip.

Ingredients

Serving Size

• Serves 4

From Your Pantry

• 1 cup Kokum syrup
• 4 cups Chilled sparkling water
• 1/2 teaspoon Roasted cumin powder
• 2 tablespoons Sugar (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes

Additional Grocery Items Needed

• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• 1 Star fruit for garnish (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Preparation

1. In a large pitcher, combine the kokum syrup, sugar, roasted cumin powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Slowly pour in the chilled sparkling water, stirring gently to mix everything together.
3. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more sugar or kokum syrup if needed.
4. Fill glasses with ice cubes to the brim.
5. Pour the prepared kokum sharbat over the ice, leaving some room at the top for garnishing.
6. Garnish each glass with fresh mint leaves and a slice of star fruit on the rim for an elegant touch.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors.

Expert Tips

• For a deeper flavor, let the kokum mixture sit for an hour before adding the sparkling water.
• If kokum syrup is not available, you can make your own by soaking dried kokum in hot water, blending it, and straining the mixture.
• Adjust the sweetness and tanginess according to your preference. Kokum's natural sourness is its charm, so start conservatively with the sugar.

Serving Suggestions

This Sparkling Kokum Sharbat is a versatile drink that pairs wonderfully with spicy Indian snacks or grilled seafood dishes. Its refreshing nature makes it a perfect companion for outdoor summer parties or as a novel welcome drink at festive gatherings. Serve it in clear glasses to showcase its beautiful color, and don't forget the garnishes, which add not only to the visual appeal but also introduce subtle flavors that complement the kokum.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Sugars: 28g (from Kokum syrup and added sugar)
• Sodium: 5mg
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Sparkling Kokum Sharbat. It's a testament to the timeless charm of traditional recipes reimagined with a modern twist. Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family, and don't hesitate to put your own spin on it. Perhaps a dash of ginger for an extra kick or a splash of coconut water for an exotic touch. The possibilities are endless, and the joy of cooking lies in these personal touches that make each dish uniquely yours.