Yash Lakhan
April 29, 2025
Indian mocktails take inspiration from a wide spectrum of ingredients – ranging from spice mixes, herb-forward blends, muddled fruits, to innovative savoury notes. In contrast to cloyingly sweet or muted drinks, Indian beverages hold their own alongside an assortment of flatbreads, chutneys, fritters or even rice-based dishes.
With its dense, pulpy texture and a savoury undertone from black salt and red chilli, this mocktail finds equilibrium between sweet and spice – perfect for complementing rich and greasy brunch foods.
Light on the palate but assertive in presence, the light pink beverage brings tart, slightly astringent profiles with gentle umami and effervescence to cleanse the palate between heavy, layered lunch courses.
The citrusy drink pierces any heaviness from Indian preparations with its minty brim and zesty lime flavours; its grassy crispness acts as a palate cleanser with soft effervescence.
Rich spice notes with classic dessert-like flavours and a soft finish, this beverage leans more towards a drink served at the end of a meal — ideal for slow sipping.
Salty, spicy and frothy with the right amount of acidity, masala chaas is a delicious yoghurt-based classic punctuated with the vegetal flavours of cucumber bits for additional texture.
Mildly tannic and vibrantly hued, the spritzer leans in on the natural bitterness of the seasonal berry, with fizz that elevates its composition for a light and crisp beverage.