Kala Khatta Shikanji For A Cool And Instantly Refreshing Sip
Shikanji
36 mins
Cooking Time
Easy
Difficulty
16
Ingredients
Veg
Diet
Kala Khatta Shikanji brings together kokum’s deep tang with a spice blend that feels straight out of an Indian street cart. This drink is often linked with hot weather, where cooling ingredients and bold flavours are preferred. In many homes, a shikanji recipe like this becomes a quick fix for heat and fatigue without relying on packaged drinks.
The base syrup develops complexity through slow simmering, where kokum softens and releases its sharp, fruity notes. Once balanced with sugar and black salt, it turns into a concentrate that stores well for days. A shikanji recipe prepared this way allows quick assembly whenever needed, making it practical for daily use.
Kala Khatta Shikanji stands out because of its layered taste; sweet at first sip, then tangy, followed by a light spice hit from roasted masala. The addition of lime and mint during serving lifts the drink further, making it lively rather than heavy. It’s not just refreshing; it feels crafted with intention.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
½ cup Kokum (For Kala Khatta Syrup)
3 cupsWater
1 inchGinger (crushed)
4–5Black peppercorns
1 tspCumin seeds
¾ cupGranulated sugar
1Green chilli (deseeded)
to tasteBlack salt
2 tspCumin seeds (For Shikanji Masala)
½ tspFennel seeds
1 podGreen cardamom
from 2 podsBlack cardamom seeds
1 tspBlack peppercorns
¼ tspCoriander seeds
2 tspBlack salt
1 tspChaat masala
Plate it up!
Plate it up!
Plating Instructions
Plating Instructions

Serve in a clear glass to show the rich colour and ice texture.
Pairing Instructions
Pairing Instructions

Works well with chaat, pakoras, or light fried snacks.
Garnishing Instructions
Garnishing Instructions

Top with mint leaves and a light sprinkle of masala.
Kala Khatta Shikanji uses kokum and a roasted spice mix instead of just lemon and sugar, giving it a deeper, tangy taste with a mild spicy finish.

