Chhattisgarh Mahua Flower Drink Tribal Sacred Seasonal

Method

1. 1

   Wash dried mahua flowers thoroughly — they are harvested from the forest floor and may carry debris. Drain.

2. 2

   Bring 3 cups water to a boil. Add washed mahua flowers.

3. 3

   Reduce to medium. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the water is deeply amber-coloured and fragrant.

4. 4

   The mahua flowers release their natural sugars and sweet floral aroma into the water.

5. 5

   Strain through a fine sieve, pressing the flowers to extract all liquid.

6. 6

   Add grated jaggery to the hot strained liquid. Stir until dissolved.

7. 7

   Add cardamom powder. Stir.

8. 8

   Serve warm as a sweet aromatic drink. Can also be served cooled over ice.