how to make bael juice - #24636

In the midst of trying to combat this relentless heat, bael juice could definitely be a refreshing and energy-boosting choice. Bael fruit, also known as wood apple, has a cooling effect that’s particularly helpful in Ayurveda for pacifying Pitta dosha, which often gets aggravated in hot weather. Preparing bael juice is relatively straightforward, and I’ve got a practical plan to help you make it without any fancy kitchen tools.

Start by getting a fresh bael fruit — it has a hard outer shell, so use a rolling pin to lightly crack it open, or carefully use a blunt object like a hammer. Once open, you’ll see orange pulp inside that might look a bit strange, but trust me, it’s where all the goodness is. Scoop out the pulp using a spoon, avoiding the hard seeds.

The soaking process you mentioned is indeed recommended. Place the pulp into a bowl and add about twice the amount of water to the pulp. Let it soak for around 20 to 30 minutes. This helps in softening the pulp, making it easier to work with.

Now comes the messy, yet fun part — mashing! You can use your hands to mash the pulp in the water, making sure to release all the juices. This creates a thick juice that needs straining. Use a fine mesh sieve or a cheesecloth to strain this mixture into another bowl, ensuring you catch all the little bits of fiber.

If you like, add a little jaggery or honey to taste, and perhaps a pinch of cardamom or black salt to enhance the flavor and balance the Vata dosha. Pour it into a jug, chill it a bit or add ice if you like, and it’s ready to be sipped on!

For those, who prefer simplicity, ready-made bael syrup is available which just needs to be diluted with water, keeping it easy to enjoy the benefits without much fuss. Stay hydrated, and enjoy the burst of energy and the cool relief this drink brings, especially while facing the summer heat.