By Anita Marwaha
Gond Katira (Tragacanth Gum) is a cornerstone of Indian summer wellness with body-cooling, hydrating and soothing properties. Since it is a natural coolant with a jelly-like texture, it's perfect for the hot summer months and being tasteless, it acts as a "texture booster" for many of the traditional drinks we already enjoy.
Soaking is the Key: You only need 1–2 tsp of small crystals of Gond Katira. Soak them in a glass of water overnight or for 8 hours. They will swell up to 10 times their size into a translucent, crushed-ice-looking jelly. Always strain any excess water before adding to your drinks.
Some easy, cooling recipes you can try at home with Gond Katira are:
Gond Katira Milk Cooler
Add 1–2 tbsp soaked gond Katira in a glass of cold milk. Add chopped almonds and pistachios and Cardamom powder. Brown sugar or honey can be added according to taste. This drink strengthens the body is good for weakness and during exhaustion due to hot & high temperatures in summer months. It is very nourishing for elderly people.
Gond Katira Lemonade
If you prefer something lighter and citrusy, this is a fantastic hydrating option. Mix the juice of one lemon, honey and black salt in water. Stir in the Gond Katira. The jelly bits will float around and keep your gut cool for hours.
Coconut Gond Cooler
Blend coconut water, coconut pulp, soaked gond katira, soaked chia seeds, mint and a pinch of black salt for a hydrating, creamy drink.
Gond Katira Fruit Salad
Mix soaked gond katira with chopped muskmelon or watermelon, coconut milk, and a little honey for a healthy, cooling breakfast or dessert.
Gond Katira Rose Sherbat
Combine 2/3 tbsp soaked gond katira with chilled milk or water, rose syrup. Soaked sabja seeds (basil seeds), and ice cubes for a refreshing cooler. You can also use khus syrup for Sherbat.
Important Tips:
- Gond katira expands significantly, so use a large bowl and plenty of water for soaking
- It is very high in fibre so it should not be consumed in excess, else can cause digestive issues like bloating, gas and constipation
- It may lower blood sugar levels, requiring diabetics to monitor their levels closely
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using, as it might affect digestion or hormone balance