Bael Ka Sharbat or Wood Apple Sherbet is a refreshing summer drink made fresh with summer stone fruit called bael pathar. This fruit is widely available in northern parts of India and consumed either raw or as sherbet by many. Bael is full of many health benefits and a must have in summer.
Refreshing summer drinks to keep the heat at bay try roohafza, lassi or buttermilk.
My babaji always told me to use mishri or bura wherever possible in place of sugar. I also try to keep the traditions alive by using as much of the less refined and local produce.
It’s raining incessantly since yesterday. Ever since I’ve moved to Pune, I’ve come to dislike rainy season a lot to the extent that my dislike is bordering towards hate! Continuous humid & moist air, no Sun, smelly clothes & prolonged period of rainfall gets to me!!
Though I agree it has its moments too! Let me try and forget the weather and concentrate on the post.
I love Bael ka sharbat. There is no other way of putting it. I simply love it and I’m the only one who does in my immediate family except my late grand father. It used to be a special dada-poti moment every summer. This was one of the first things I learned in the name of ‘Kitchen’ from my grand mother when I must have been teeny-weeny girl.
My mother’s house has 3 trees which yield 100s of fully ripe bael each season. So this time when I was at my mom’s place I had the perfect opportunity to enjoy it again (daily.. :D). There are many ways to make it especially by adding lime juice, the recipe I follow is preferred in my household.
FAQs
Bel ka sharbat, made from the fruit of the bael tree (Aegle marmelos or Wood Apple), is a popular traditional drink in India, especially during the summer. It offers several health benefits like:
Digestive Health:
1. Relieves Constipation: Bel ka sharbat is known for its laxative properties, helping to relieve constipation and improve bowel movements.
2. Soothes Digestive Tract: It helps in soothing the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of ulcers and other gastrointestinal issues.
Hydration and Cooling:
1. Rehydrates the Body: Rich in water content, bel ka sharbat helps in keeping the body hydrated, especially in hot weather.
2. Cooling Effect: It has a cooling effect on the body, making it a refreshing drink in the summer.
Nutritional Benefits:
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Bel fruit is a good source of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, and minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron.
Immune Boosting:
Strengthens Immunity: The presence of antioxidants and vitamins in bel ka sharbat helps in boosting the immune system.
Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Reduces Inflammation: The drink has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Blood Purification:
Detoxifies the Blood: Regular consumption of bel ka sharbat during the summer months is believed to help in purifying the blood and removing toxins from the body.
Respiratory Health:
Eases Respiratory Issues: It can be beneficial in easing respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis.
Energy Booster:
Provides Energy: The natural sugars and nutrients present in bel ka sharbat provide an instant energy boost.
Wood apple juice, derived from the fruit of the wood apple tree or bel ka sherbet in hindi (Limonia acidissima), offers numerous health benefits. This traditional beverage is enjoyed for its unique flavor and nutritional properties. Here are some key benefits:
Digestive Health:
1. Relieves Constipation: Wood apple juice acts as a natural laxative, helping to relieve constipation and promote healthy bowel movements.
2. Treats Diarrhea and Dysentery: It has anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic properties, making it effective in treating diarrhea and dysentery.
3. Improves Digestion: It aids in digestion by promoting the secretion of digestive enzymes.
Nutritional Benefits:
1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Wood apple juice is a good source of vitamins A, B, C, and minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron.
2. High in Fiber: The juice contains dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Boosts Immunity:
Enhances Immune Function: The high vitamin C content in wood apple juice boosts the immune system and helps the body fight infections.
Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Reduces Inflammation: The juice has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of conditions like arthritis.
Detoxification:
Purifies the Blood: Regular consumption of wood apple juice is believed to help detoxify the blood and remove toxins from the body.
Respiratory Health:
Eases Respiratory Issues: It can help relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis due to its soothing properties.
Energy Booster:
Provides Instant Energy: The natural sugars in wood apple juice provide a quick energy boost, making it a refreshing and revitalizing drink.
Skin Health:
Improves Skin Texture: The antioxidants and vitamins in the juice contribute to healthier skin by reducing oxidative stress and promoting a clear complexion.
Weight Management:
Supports Weight Loss: The fiber content in wood apple juice can help in weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake.
Wood apple, also known as Limonia acidissima or bael fruit, has several potential benefits for individuals with diabetes:
Low Glycemic Index:
Slow Release of Glucose: Wood apple has a low glycemic index, which means it releases glucose into the bloodstream slowly, helping to prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.
High Fiber Content:
Improves Digestion: The high fiber content in wood apple helps in slowing down the absorption of sugar, which can help manage blood glucose levels.
Promotes Satiety: Fiber also promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help in weight management, a crucial aspect of diabetes care.
Antioxidant Properties:
Reduces Oxidative Stress: The antioxidants present in wood apple help in reducing oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing diabetes and its complications.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels:
Natural Insulin Sensitizer: Some studies suggest that components in wood apple can help improve insulin sensitivity, making it easier for the body to regulate blood sugar levels.
Anti-inflammatory Effects:
Reduces Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is often associated with diabetes, and the anti-inflammatory properties of wood apple can help mitigate this issue.
Conclusion
Wood apple can be a beneficial addition to a diabetes-friendly diet due to its low glycemic index, high fiber content, and various other health benefits. However, it should be consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet tailored to individual health needs.
1. Wood Apple Juice:
Prepare fresh wood apple juice without adding sugar. You can add a bit of lemon juice for flavor.
2. Raw Fruit:
Consume the raw fruit in moderation, ensuring it is part of a balanced diet. You can scoop out the pulp and enjoy it raw.
3. Chutneys and Sauces:
Use wood apple pulp to make chutneys or sauces that can be paired with meals.
Precautions: There are some precautions which you should practice while consuming wood apple in case of suffering from diabetes:
1. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels:
Even though wood apple has a low glycemic index, it’s essential to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to see how it affects you personally.
2. Avoid Added Sugars:
When preparing wood apple juice or dishes, avoid adding extra sugars or sweeteners.
3. Consult a Healthcare Provider:
Always consult with your healthcare provider or a dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have diabetes.
Note – Bael is known for its digestive properties, however too much consumption at a go can leave you with upset tummy – so enjoy with caution. :)
Bael Ka Sharbat or WoodApple Sherbet
Ingredients
- 1 wood apple bael
- 3 tbsp sugar granulated
- 3 cup cold water
Instructions
- Bang the wood apple against a hard surface like your floor or a counter top. Just be careful if the surface is fragile and can break with banging. Or alternatively you can use a small hammer to gently tap the wood apple few times till cracks appear. Then pull it apart firmly. Using a spoon scrape the pulp out and soak the pulp in water for 2 hours. The water should be just enough to soak.
- In a large bowl, take 1 cup water and add sugar, stir to mix well. You can even use use powdered sugar to make it easier to mix sugar. Keep aside.
- Once the soaked pulp is soft, use your hands to further break it down and mash. Place a strainer on the bowl of sweetend water and pour the pulp on it. Strain well. You may need to squeeze some remaining juices using your hand. Discard the seeds & fibre.
- Add cold water to this wood apple mixture and dilute according to taste. I am more for a thick sherbet. Garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Bael is known for its digestive properties, however too much consumption at a go can leave you with upset tummy – so enjoy with caution.
- This recipe is very adaptable, so adjust according to your taste – reduce sweetness, add more salt, or more water, etc.
- Use mishri or bura wherever possible in place of sugar for higher benefits and lesser cons.
Ah- this reminds me of summer vacations at your house. I never liked Bel, then, but now I miss it. :)
me too i also love a lot…………it reaallly has soothing effect on mind and stomach
Have heard a lot of things about this :) Its a healthy one. Nice shots :)
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Thanks. :)
Yummy I love this in summers!
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