To keep the body cool in hot weather, most of us drink one beverage or another. Instead of the brightly coloured drinks sold in the market, rely on aam panna to stay cool this summer.

The drink helps lower the body's internal temperature in the heat. It also helps protect against heatstroke and is good for the heart. Aam panna contains vitamin C, which is good for the skin.

It is also nourishing for the hair and helps keep eyesight healthy. Stomach problems can increase in hot weather, and dehydration raises the risk of diarrhoea. Aam panna keeps the stomach in good order and helps boost immunity.

• 2–3 green mangoes
• 5–6 tablespoons of sugar
• 2 spoons of roasted spice powder
• Black salt (bit lobon) to taste

First wash the mangoes and cut off the stem end. Then score the skin of the mangoes. Light the gas stove and roast the scored mangoes over the flame. Once roasted, the mangoes become quite soft.

Now peel the mangoes. Separate the pulp inside, add the salt and sugar and mix well. While mixing, make sure no lumps remain.

Then strain the mixture well through a sieve and stir in the roasted spice powder. Add a little water to the mixture. Drop in two pieces of ice and your aam panna is ready.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.