Panakam is a refreshing, spiced jaggery water, traditionally offered during Akshaya Tritiya and other summer festivals. It’s naturally cooling, needs no cooking at all, and is simple enough for kids to help mix themselves.
What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup jaggery, grated
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 tsp dry ginger powder (or freshly grated ginger)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- A pinch of black pepper powder
- A few drops of lemon juice
- A few mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Steps
Step 1: Dissolve the jaggery. Mix the grated jaggery into the water and stir well until fully dissolved.
Step 2: Add the spices. Stir in the ginger powder, cardamom powder, and black pepper.
Step 3: Add a splash of lemon. A few drops of lemon juice brightens the flavour beautifully.
Step 4: Chill and serve. Refrigerate for a bit, then serve cold, topped with a few mint leaves.
💡 Panakam is often offered to the gods first, then shared with everyone – a small way of saying thank you before enjoying something sweet.
Did You Know?
- Panakam is traditionally made without any cooking or heating – everything is simply mixed together, which is part of why it’s considered a light, easy offering.
- The drink is especially popular during hot summer festivals, since jaggery and spices like ginger are believed to help cool and soothe the body.
- Different regions add their own twist – some include a pinch of saffron, others prefer extra black pepper for a spicier kick.