Rainbow Mocktail | A Colourful Tamarind Summer Drink
Sometimes one recipe inspires another.
After preparing my Gandharaj Bhetki Fish Kababs with smoky green mango dip, I wanted a refreshing drink that could accompany the meal without overpowering it. The answer came from familiar pantry ingredients — tamarind, mint, fruits and colourful ice cubes.
What emerged was a playful summer drink that looked festive but remained completely rooted in local flavours.
Believe it or not, this is a desi drink.
The foundation is a sweet-and-sour tamarind syrup, brightened with mint, white pepper and rock salt. The colourful appearance comes from homemade fruity ice cubes that slowly melt into the drink, changing its flavour and colour over time.
Tamarind Syrup
Ingredients
- Sour tamarind pulp – ½ cup
- Sugar – 1 cup
- Water – 1 cup
- Mint juice – 1 teaspoon
- White pepper powder – ½ teaspoon
- Rock salt – 1 to 2 teaspoons
Method
- Mix tamarind pulp, sugar and water.
- Simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Add mint juice, white pepper powder and rock salt.
- Stir well and allow the syrup to cool completely.
- Refrigerate until chilled.
Fruity Ice Cubes
I prepared colourful ice cubes using:
- Ripe mango pulp
- Watermelon pulp
- Khus syrup
Freeze each separately in ice trays.
Assembling the Rainbow Mocktail
For One Glass
- Tamarind syrup – 1 tablespoon
- Soda water – ½ cup
- Chilled water – ½ cup
- Fruity ice cubes – as required
- Take a serving glass.
- Add tamarind syrup.
- Pour in soda water and chilled water.
- Stir or shake gently.
- Add the colourful fruit ice cubes.
- Serve immediately.
As the ice slowly melts, the drink changes colour and flavour, creating a playful summer experience.
Serving Suggestions
This Rainbow Mocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Gandharaj Bhetki Fish Kabab
- Green Mango Mint Dip
- Light summer meals
- Garden parties
- Family gatherings
What began as a companion to a Gandharaj Bhetki Fish Kabab experiment eventually became a refreshing summer favourite in its own right.
FAQ
What makes this mocktail colourful?
The colourful appearance comes from fruit-based ice cubes made from mango pulp, watermelon pulp and khus syrup.
Can I make the tamarind syrup in advance?
Yes. The tamarind syrup can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until needed.
Can I use sparkling water instead of soda water?
Yes. Sparkling water works well and provides a lighter flavour.
What foods pair well with this mocktail?
This refreshing drink pairs well with fish kababs, grilled foods, summer snacks and festive meals.
