When the sun blazes and the temperature soars, Indians instinctively reach for their arsenal of summer coolers—think jaljeera, aam panna, nimbu paani, and chaas. These desi drinks are more than thirst-quenchers; they’re hydrating, flavour-packed nostalgia in a glass. But what if we turned up the heat and added a little grown-up twist?
This summer, we’re infusing your favourite Indian coolers with a boozy kick. From tangy to spicy and minty to smoky, here are cocktails inspired by classic Indian coolers that’ll cool your soul and lift your spirits—literally.
Masala Mojito (Inspired by Nimbu Paani)
The OG thirst-quencher gets a zesty reboot.
Your humble nimbu paani meets a mojito on vacation. Think fresh lime juice, muddled mint, a dash of kala namak, a sprinkle of chaat masala, and white rum over crushed ice. The result? A tangy, fizzy, herbaceous sip with all the roadside-stand charm and a tropical bar buzz.
Pro tip: Use soda or tonic water for extra sparkle.
Food pairing: Spicy potato wedges, masala peanuts, or paneer tikka.
Aam Panna Punch
Mango meets mischief.
Aam panna is a north-Indian staple, made from raw mango pulp, cumin, black salt, and mint. Add vodka or light rum to the mix, shake it with ice, and top with sparkling water or ginger ale. The smoky tang of the mango and cumin blends beautifully with the spirit, giving you a cocktail that screams summer in every sip.
Optional flair: Add a chili-salt rim for drama and kick.
Food pairing: Chicken pakoras, corn bhel, or raw mango salad.
Spiked Jaljeera Gin Fizz
For those who like their cocktails like their personalities—spicy and complex.
Jaljeera’s blend of cumin, black salt, tamarind, mint, and lemon is practically made for mixing with gin. Just add some soda water and a hint of sugar syrup to balance the spice, and you’ve got a cocktail with layers of flavour. It’s bold, punchy, and unapologetically Indian.
Garnish with: A mint sprig and a cucumber slice for cooling contrast.
Food pairing: Papdi chaat, pani puri, or spicy fried bhindi.
Chaas Martini
Yes, it sounds weird. Yes, it works.
This is not your grandmother’s chaas. Take chilled buttermilk infused with roasted cumin powder, mint, and a pinch of salt. Add a splash of vodka or gin, shake it like a proper martini, and strain into a chilled glass. It’s savory, creamy, and oddly addictive.
Great for: Brunches, hangovers, and confusing your cocktail snob friends.
Food pairing: Stuffed parathas, aloo bondas, or methi theplas.
Rose & Rooh Afza Rosé Spritz
Because nothing says summer nostalgia like Rooh Afza—and nothing says grown-up like rosé.
This pretty pink spritz blends chilled rosé wine with a splash of Rooh Afza, soda water, and lemon juice. It’s floral, refreshing, and lightly sweet—perfect for sipping poolside or pairing with a spicy chaat platter.
Instagram bonus: Add edible rose petals or basil seeds for a trendy touch.
Food pairing: Fruit chaat, rose-flavored macarons, or chicken malai kebabs.
Thandai White Russian
A Holi hangover cure that doubles as a cocktail.
Thandai—a spiced milk drink with fennel, pepper, rose, cardamom, and almonds—makes an exotic base for a desi-style White Russian. Just mix thandai concentrate with vodka and a splash of cream (or milk) over ice. It’s rich, creamy, and laced with festive flavours.
Try with: A touch of saffron or a pistachio garnish for extra indulgence.
Food pairing: Dry fruit laddoos, almond cookies, or saffron-flavored kheer.
Nariyal Negroni
The coconut water cocktail you didn’t know you needed.
Classic negronis can be a bit intense for summer, but coconut water smoothens the edges. Mix equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari with a generous splash of tender coconut water. It’s bitter, tropical, and surprisingly hydrating (but don’t skip the hangover cure).
Serve in: A coconut shell for beachy vibes, even if you’re on your balcony.
Food pairing: Tandoori prawns, Kerala-style banana chips, or Thai spring rolls.
Summing It Up: Cheers to Chillers
India’s summer coolers were always legendary—but with a cheeky shot of alcohol, they’re elevated to cocktail royalty. Whether you’re hosting a terrace party, lounging in your AC fortress, or just dreaming of a Goa getaway, these cocktails inspired by Indian coolers offer a perfect blend of nostalgia and novelty.
So the next time someone asks what you’re drinking, you can say, “It’s just nimbu paani… with benefits.”
Drink responsibly—and sip desi this summer.
