Green Apple Panna

Green Apple Panna

Traditionally in North India, 'Panna' is made from green mangoes (unripe) and had as a drink during the sweltering summers. The unripe mangoes are tart which adds a different flavour to this drink. Added to that the different spices makes it an unusual, yet tasty drink. The Black salt /kala namak used in this drink is a type of salt found in India which due to the sulfur content, gives a distinct aroma and taste.

Since fall is also the season for apples and everyone seems to be making desserts with them, I thought a 'Green Apple Panna' will be a welcome change!

This recipe was tested out and also photographed by Taranjeet Kaur-Kothari, a friend from Oregon. Thanks a ton TJ- the photos are superb ( do we see a budding photographer and blogger in the making???).

Ingredients for the Green Apple Panna:

• Green apples(Granny Smith) - 4nos.
• Roasted cumin seeds - 1 tsp
• Sugar: 4-5 tsp (or according to taste)
• Black salt- 1 tsp
• Lemon-1no.
• Mint leaves- a few
• Green apple chunks - 20-25g (optional)

Method:

1. Coat the skin of the apples with a little oil and bake( or roast over a flame) till soft.
2. Scoop out the pulp and mash in the mixie with lemon juice with water, sugar, mint leaves,black salt and roasted cumin.
3. Whisk thoroughly.
4.  Let the panna cool down and then add lots of crushed ice to the panna.
5. Add green apple chunks(optional)
6. Garnish the Green Apple Panna with some mint leaves and serve chilled.

Note: Black salt/Kala namak can be found in all Indian grocery stores.

 Green Apple Panna

Once again a big shout out to Taranjeet and her hubby for testing, tasting and photographing this delicious drink!