Five

Beverages

to Offer Guests Other Than Tea or Coffee

Quick Summary

Ditch the usual tea and coffee. Wow your guests with some of India’s best welcome drinks—creamy Lassi, zesty Nimbu Pani, tangy Kokum Soda, refreshing Aam Panna, and soul-warming Kashmiri Kahwa. Whether it’s summer coolers or a hot drink for winter, these Indian beverages guarantee a sip-worthy, unforgettable welcome!

Deep Dive

When welcoming guests into your home, serving a refreshing beverage is a great way to set the tone for a warm and hospitable gathering. While tea and coffee are classic choices, exploring other options can make the experience more exciting and memorable. If you’re looking for welcome drink ideas, Indian style, there are plenty of delicious alternatives that cater to various preferences, from cool summer sippers to warm winter brews.

Here are the five best welcome drinks to impress your guests:

1. Lassi: The Classic Yoghurt Cooler

Lassi is one of the most beloved Indian beverages, known for its creamy texture and refreshing taste. Made from yoghurt, water, and spices or fruit, lassi is a versatile drink that can be customised to suit different palates.

Variations:

• Sweet Lassi: Made with sugar, cardamom, and sometimes saffron, this version is a delightful treat.

• Salty Lassi: A savoury version with salt, roasted cumin, and mint for a cooling effect.

• Mango Lassi: A summer favourite, blending ripe mangoes with yoghurt for a fruity twist.

Lassi is one of the best welcome drinks to serve, especially during warm weather. It aids digestion and keeps the body cool, making it an excellent beverage for guests visiting on a hot day.

2. Nimbu Pani: The Quintessential Lemon Cooler

Nimbu Pani, also known as Indian lemonade, is a staple in Indian households. This simple yet effective thirst quencher is made using fresh lime juice, sugar or salt, water, and a hint of black salt or cumin powder for added depth.

Why It’s Great for Guests:

• Instantly refreshing and hydrating

• Easily customisable; serve it sweet, salty, or with herbs like mint or basil

• A perfect welcome drink idea for any occasion

Nimbu Pani is light, citrussy, and packed with vitamin C, making it an excellent choice for those who want a healthy and revitalising drink.

3. Kokum Soda: A Sweet and Tangy Delight

A unique Indian beverage, Kokum Soda is a Goan specialty that blends the tangy goodness of kokum fruit with soda or sparkling water. Kokum is known for its cooling properties and is often used in summer drinks to prevent dehydration.

Ingredients:

• Kokum syrup or fresh kokum extract

• Chilled soda or water

• Sugar or honey (optional)

• Roasted cumin powder for an earthy flavour

Why It’s a Great Welcome Drink for Guests:

• The combination of tangy kokum and fizzy soda makes it a refreshing and exciting choice.

• It aids digestion, making it an ideal pre-meal drink.

• Its vibrant pinkish-red hue adds a visually appealing touch to any gathering.

For those looking for welcome drink ideas with a balance of sweet, sour, and slightly salty notes, Kokum Soda is a must-try.

4. Aam Panna: A Summer Special

Made from raw mangoes, Aam Panna is a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy drink that is particularly popular during hot summer months. It’s a welcoming beverage for guests that not only satisfies the taste buds but also helps prevent heatstroke and dehydration.

Preparation:

• Boil or roast raw mangoes until soft.

• Extract the pulp and blend it with sugar, black salt, cumin powder, and mint.

• Dilute with water and serve chilled.

Why It Stands Out:

• Aam Panna is packed with antioxidants and vitamins.

• Its unique mix of sweet and tangy flavours is loved by both kids and adults.

• It’s one of the best welcome drinks for summer gatherings.

With its distinctive taste and health benefits, Aam Panna is an ideal choice when looking for welcome drink ideas in Indian style.

5. Kashmiri Kahwa: A Warm Embrace for Winter

If you’re looking for a hot drink for winter, Kashmiri Kahwa is a fantastic alternative to traditional tea or coffee. This spiced green tea from Kashmir is infused with cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, and almonds, creating a fragrant and soul-warming beverage. It's often served in a beautifully designed copper kettle called a samovar, enhancing its cultural significance and presentation.

How to Prepare:

• Boil water with cinnamon, cardamom, and saffron.

• Add Kashmiri green tea leaves and let it steep.

• Garnish with chopped almonds and serve warm.

Why It’s a Perfect Welcome Drink for Guests in Winter:

• The aromatic spices provide warmth and comfort.

• Saffron and almonds add a luxurious touch to your hospitality.

• It aids digestion and boosts immunity during cold weather.

Raise a Glass to Indian Hospitality 

Choosing the right beverage to welcome your guests can elevate the experience and showcase the richness of Indian hospitality. Whether it’s the creamy indulgence of Lassi, the citrusy freshness of Nimbu Pani, the tangy delight of Kokum Soda, the cooling effect of Aam Panna, or the warmth of Kashmiri Kahwa, these Indian beverages are perfect alternatives to tea and coffee. Next time you have guests over, surprise them with these best welcome drinks, ensuring a refreshing and memorable experience that celebrates Indian flavours and traditions.