As heatwaves grip cities across India, especially in areas like Delhi-NCR which is on a red alert for extreme temperatures, staying hydrated and healthy is more important than ever. If the scorching sun is leaving you drained and disinterested in food, this soothing bowl of dahi kanji might be just what your body needs.
This traditional Indian summer drink doubles as a gut-friendly cooling dish that is light, nourishing, and refreshing. Made using simple ingredients and requiring minimal effort, dahi kanji is a wholesome option to help you survive the summer blaze.
Here’s how you can prepare this quick and cooling dahi kanji at home:
Ingredients:
For the kanji:
- 2 white radishes (sliced)
- 5 cups water
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp rice flour
- ½ cup curd
- 1 tsp gram flour (besan)
For tempering:
- 2–3 crushed garlic cloves
- 2 dried red chillies
- 1 sprig of curry leaves
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp hing (asafoetida) or methi seeds
- 2 tbsp oil
For garnish:
- Fresh coriander leaves
Method:
Begin by cooking the sliced white radish in 5 cups of water along with turmeric powder, rice flour, and salt for about 15–20 minutes until the radish is soft and cooked through. In the meantime, whisk together the curd, besan, and ½ cup of water until smooth.
Once the radish is cooked, slowly add the yogurt mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to avoid curdling. Simmer the mixture on very low heat for another 10 minutes, ensuring it stays smooth and blends well.
For tempering, heat oil in a separate pan and add mustard seeds, cumin, and dried red chillies. When the mustard seeds begin to pop, add in the crushed garlic. Let the garlic turn golden before adding curry leaves and letting it cook for a minute.
Pour this aromatic tempering into the kanji pot and cook for a final 5 minutes on low flame. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Serving suggestion:
Pair your dahi kanji with piping hot rice and a crunchy papad to create a wholesome, heat-friendly, and digestion-boosting meal — perfect for summer lunches.
This light and probiotic-rich dish is not only delicious but also a great way to care for your gut during the sweltering season. A bowl of this, and you’ll feel nourished from within.
