Exotic Elixirs

(This article is extracted from Reader’s Digest September issue)

I have been browsing through old Reader's Digest magazines and look what I found! Some unusual names of refreshing and exotic drinks from other parts of the world:

Karkady – A tart red tea is popular in Eygpt
Aam Panna – Indian keep a pitcher of aam panna on hand. To make it, boil raw mangos and blend the pulp with water, sugar, salt, chili powder, cumin and crushed ice. Top with mint leaves.
Horchata – Rice drink that originally made in Mexico by grinding rice with a mortar and pestle.
Ayran – tangy drink served in any McDonald’s in Turkey. Below is recipe for preparing Ayran:

(serves 6)
2 tbsp mint (chopped); 2 tbsp sugar; 3 cups whole yoghurt (plain); 1 cup or more water

1. Combine mint and sugar in mortar. Crush with pestle until they form a syrupy paste. (you can use blender if you don’t have mortar and pestle at home)
2. Combine yoghurt and water until smooth and milky. Stir in mint mixture and pour over ice.

Try it and tell me how it tastes! *wink*