The famous Indian summer is here. In the following months, the sweltering summer heat will descend on Indian coasts. With temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius in May and June, dirt, smog, heatwaves, sunburn, and weariness are typical commodities.
These hot months, especially in a state like Maharashtra, can overwhelm even the strongest of people. Heat and sweat will most likely be our regular companions for the next 4 months or so, but one of the most prevalent health issues we confront is dehydration.
But it’s not only dehydration that’s the problem
Many are unaware that in summer, along with water and other fluids, we lose a lot of electrolytes. So, what are these electrolytes? The elements known as electrolytes can be present in your blood and other bodily fluids. Among the minerals in the blood are calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, and phosphate, all essential for healthy cell and organ function. These include controlling the cardiac rhythm and blood pressure, controlling muscle and heart contractions, and preserving fluid balance and nerve activity.
So, how do we deal with it?
Adding buttermilk to our daily routine is one way to address this problem. In addition to assisting with fluid and electrolyte balance, it is also beneficial for treating anaemia, inflammation, spleen diseases, gastrointestinal and digestive issues, as well as appetite loss.
Buttermilk is recommended by Ayurvedic nutrition to calm Pitta dosha (with the addition of honey or rose water), calm Vata, and calm Kapha ( use of rock salt, honey, spices like dry-roasted cumin powder, black pepper and herbs like Ginger). One of the finest natural treatments for conditions including piles, diarrhoea, jaundice, and liver and spleen failure is buttermilk.
Buttermilk is readily available all over India. From dairies to local grocery stores, buttermilk is the hottest (ironically) selling drink in India. However, one place where you can source them, even without having to step out of your home, is an online e-commerce platform, like Amazon and Flipkart where Govind Mattha would be abundantly available all across the country.
Urban or rural, every home in India has a standard, unbeatable recipe for buttermilk. Known by a variety of names across the Indian subcontinent, including Majjiga in Telugu, Chaas, Chaach, or Chaaj in the Northern belt, Taak, and Mattha in Maharashtra, buttermilk is a popular beverage.
So, let’s find out about the most loved summer drink from Maharashtra called Mattha.
What is Mattha?
Mattha is a traditional Indian drink made from whisked yoghurt, water, and spices. It is a popular beverage in many regions of India, particularly in the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and mainly Maharashtra. Mattha is usually served chilled and is a refreshing drink during the hot summer months.
The recipe for Mattha can vary depending on the region and personal preferences, but it typically includes ingredients such as yoghurt, water, salt, roasted cumin powder, ginger, green chillies, and coriander leaves. Govind Mattha is a testament of how the rendition of this traditional drink is available in tetra paks for your personal consumption.
Govind Mattha is considered a healthy drink as it is low in calories, high in protein, and contains probiotics that can aid in digestion. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and vitamin B12.
In addition to its health benefits, Mattha is also believed to have cooling properties and is often served as a digestive aid after a meal. It is a popular drink during festivals and celebrations and is also served as a welcome drink to guests in many Indian households.
Mattha – A nutritious drink for all
For people of all ages, mattha is a nutritious treat. This drink has no age restrictions, therefore it can be consumed by anyone, whether they are young (excellent dosage of calcium) or old. In fact, dahi or buttermilk is recommended for diabetics to help keep their blood sugar levels under control and keep them satisfied for longer.
Everyone loves mattha, a popular and cooling summer beverage from Maharashtrian cuisine. Mattha would undoubtedly be served at a normal Maharashtrian wedding. In fact, Mattha and traditional Maharashtrian Masale Bhaat make a lovely couple at weddings. Not to mention the other scrumptious combination with the popular Maharashtrian dish ‘Phodnichi Poli,’ a leftover roti poha.
All ages can enjoy Mattha, this is one beverage that has no age constraints, whether it be a child or an elderly person.