United News of Bangladesh

Dragon fruit is not just delicious but also loaded with nutrients. This vibrant, refreshing fruit is perfect for summer. Besides enjoying it raw, you can also try some easy Dragon Fruit recipes.  Nutrients and Health Benefits of Dragon Fruit Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a nutritional powerhouse despite its low calories. It is rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. It also contains vitamin B which aids in energy production. High in fibre, dragon fruit supports healthy digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.  Dragon fruit is also packed with antioxidants like betalains, which combat free radicals and reduce inflammation. Some research suggests these antioxidants have anti-cancer properties.  Additionally, this fruit provides essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and calcium, contributing to bone health and muscle function. Including dragon fruit in your diet can enhance the overall well-being of health.  Read more: Tasty Beef and Mutton Steak Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchens Mouthwatering Dragon Fruit Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen Dragon Fruit Smoothie Ingredients 1 cup dragon fruit (cubed and frozen), 1 cup mango (cubed and frozen), 2 bananas (cut into quarters and frozen), 3/4 cup almond or coconut milk, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and 2-4 ice cubes. Instructions First, add frozen fruit, milk, and lime juice to a blender. Then, blend it until the mixture is very smooth. If needed, gradually add more almond milk to achieve your desired consistency. Serve chilled, and enjoy your refreshing smoothie. Read more: How to Safely Enjoy Street Food in Bangladesh Dragon Fruit Salad with Ice-cream Ingredients 1 dragon fruit, 1 banana, 2 mangoes, 4 to 5 sapota, 10 to 12 strawberries, 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped nuts (cashews, almonds and pistachios), 6 scoops vanilla ice cream or as required, 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (for garnish), and 5 to 6 strawberry slices (for garnish). Instructions First, rinse, peel, and chop the dragon fruits. Then place the fruit slices in a bowl. Now, add chopped nuts like cashews, almonds, and pistachios to the dragon fruits. Stir the mixture properly to combine. Following this put the fruit salad into ice cream cups. After that, top each cup with vanilla ice cream. Garnish with slices of strawberries, berries, or other fruits. Sprinkle additional chopped nuts on top. Serve immediately for a fresh and healthy treat. Read more: Fridge Smells Bad? Reasons and How to Get Rid of It Dragon Fruit Dessert (Panna Cotta) Ingredients 2 cups coconut milk (use full fat), 5 ½ tablespoons maple syrup (divided), 2 teaspoons agar agar, 1 cup chopped dragon fruit, 1/2 cup water divided, and 1 ½ teaspoon cornstarch. Instructions First, put a pan on the cooker with medium heat. Now, add coconut milk, agar agar, and 3 tablespoons of maple syrup to the pan. Stir until combined and heated. However, do not boil the mix. Reduce the cooker’s heat to a low to medium level. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the agar agar dissolves.  Next, strain the mixture for a smooth panna cotta and pour it into serving cups. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 3-4 hours until firm. At this stage, prepare the dragon fruit sauce. First, heat chopped dragon fruit with 2 ½ tablespoons of maple syrup and 1/4 cup water. Then, boil the mixture until it softens, and gets mashed. Mix the remaining 1/4 cup water with cornstarch, add to the pan, and simmer for 2 minutes until thickened. Now, strain the dragon fruit sauce and leave it to chill.  Pour the sauce over the panna cotta before serving.  Read more: Urban Agriculture: Top 10 Monsoon Vegetables to Grow in Bangladesh Dragon Fruit Pudding Ingredients 3 cups water, 1 cup dragon fruit, 1 cup evaporated milk, 3/4 cup sugar, 3/4 cup cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Instructions First, scoop out the dragon fruit flesh with a spoon and set it aside. Now, place a pot over the cooker at medium heat. Combine evaporated milk and water. Then, add cornstarch and sugar. Stir the mix until dissolved.  Next, add vanilla extract and dragon fruit to the combination. After that, continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens. Turn off the heat and transfer the dragon fruit pudding to a container. Let it cool before serving. Read more: Summer Drinks: Refreshing Homemade Sherbets to Beat the Heat Dragon Fruit Cake Ingredients 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 3/4 cup sugar, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup oil, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1/2 dragon fruit (cut into cubes), ½ tangerine (thinly sliced), and 2 tablespoons raw sugar. Instructions First, preheat the oven to 350°F. Take a large bowl and combine the flour with baking powder. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla, and oil to the mix. Now, stir the ingredients until well combined and thick. Take an 8/9-inch cake pan and pour the batter. Use a spoon to smooth the top. Then, put fruit slices on top of the batter, and press them slightly into the mixture. Sprinkle it with raw sugar.  Bake the combination in the microwave for about 50 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted in the centre comes out clean. Let it cool before serving. Read more: Delightful Recipes from Bangladeshi Kitchens to Savor on Rainy Days Dragon Fruit Ice Cream Ingredients 2 whole dragon fruit, 3 cups milk, 450ml condensed milk, juice from ½ lemon, a pinch of salt, and 2 cups coconut milk. Instructions First, remove the skin from the dragon fruit and purée it in a food processor. Next, add milk, condensed milk, lemon juice, and salt to the purée. Blend properly. After that, lightly whisk the coconut milk and gently add it to the purée mixture. Then, pour the mixture into a shallow, lidded container and freeze until partially set. Whisk the partially set mixture until smooth, then return it to the freezer until fully set. This step ensures the texture remains soft and creamy while setting. Enjoy these icy treats on a hot day. Closing Lines Dragon fruit is a versatile summer fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways. From smoothies to desserts, these recipes will help you stay cool and enjoy the benefits of this tropical superfruit. To enjoy the refreshing, nutrient-dense treats of dragon fruit this summer, get creative, and incorporate your favourite local ingredients! Read more: Miyazaki: Why are the world's costliest mangoes considerably cheap in Bangladesh?

When it comes to mouth-watering fruits like mangoes, people usually don't bother much about the price. The opportunity to taste this fruit comes only at a certain time of the year. However, this is not the case with Miyazaki mangoes. Their vibrant color and unparalleled farming process command staggering prices in the global market, making them a symbol of luxury. Yet, in a surprising twist, this coveted fruit is being sold at significantly lower prices in Bangladesh. What hidden factors are at play? Let’s dive deeper to unveil the intriguing facts. The Origin of the Miyazaki Mango First cultivated in Japan during the period from 1868 to 1912, Miyazaki mangoes gained international recognition in the 1970s. These prized fruits originate from Miyazaki, a city in Japan's Kyushu state, hence their name. Locally, they are known as ‘Taiyo-no-Tomago,’ meaning ‘Egg of the Sun.’ Their striking dark red hue has earned them the ‘Red Mango’ moniker internationally. Production of Miyazaki Mango in Bangladesh While these foreign mangoes are cultivated across the country, the Chattogram Hill Tracts stand out in terms of production. Along with varieties like Rangui and Amrapali, these exotic mangoes thrive particularly well in this region. The hilly areas’ climate, with hot daytime temperatures and significantly cooler night temperatures, accelerates the sweetening process of these mangoes, making them mature faster than in the lowlands. One remarkable example is the 35-acre mango garden established in 2016 in the Dhumnighat area of Mahalchhari upazila in Khagrachari. This garden boasts around 120 “Egg of the Sun” (another name for Miyazaki) mango trees, each aged between 3 to 4 years, and each tree has yielded 30 to 40 mangoes so far.  Read more: 50MT mangoes of Satkhira exported to Europe In another instance, a mango orchard in the Hazra area of Natore produced approximately 800 kilograms of Miyazaki mangoes in 2023. The orchard owner hopes to produce at least 2,000 kilograms this year. Interestingly, at the Directorate of Agricultural Extension's fruit garden in Dhaka's Asad Gate, several mango trees recently failed to bear fruit, except for a few small trees. These exceptional trees were none other than the Japanese Miyazaki mangoes. Price Comparison of Miyazaki Mangoes in Bangladesh and the Global Market At the inception of its cultivation, Miyazaki mangoes were initially sold for up to BDT 5,000 per kilogram. However, by 2023, prices plummeted, with many farmers selling them for as little as BDT 2,000 per kilogram, and some even less. In 2021, these mangoes produced in Khagrachari were sold for BDT 300 to 500 per kilogram. Prices often doubled in the retail market, reaching BDT 800 to 1,000. Read more: Tasty Beef and Mutton Steak Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchens The countrywide average price of one piece of this fruit was then BDT 400 to 500 per kilogram. In 2023, these Japanese mangoes were priced at BDT 200 to 250 per kilogram. This year, a mango orchard in North Betka Mamudatpur village of Munshiganj produced 30 kilograms of Miyazaki mangoes from four trees, selling at a minimum of BDT 700 per kilogram.

Cooking steak at home can be a delightful experience. Whether using beef or mutton, with the right techniques and spices, you can create delicious and succulent steaks that will impress your family and friends. Here are some fantastic steak recipes to try at Bangladeshi home kitchens. Mouth-watering Beef and Mutton Steak Recipes to Try at Home Classic Bangladeshi Beef Steak Ingredients 500 grams beef steak, 4-5 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tablespoon mustard paste, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 tablespoons oyster sauce, salt to taste, 1½ teaspoons black pepper powder, and 1 teaspoon rosemary Instructions First, take a bowl, then mix garlic, oyster sauce, olive oil, mustard, black pepper, and salt. Now, rub this mixture onto beef steak pieces, ensuring thorough coating, and marinate in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours.  Next, heat a grill pan with cooking spray and cook the steak evenly on both sides to your desired doneness. Finally, serve the steak with mashed potatoes, mushroom sauce, and sautéed vegetables. Read more: Freezer Buying Guide and Price Ranges in Bangladesh in 2024 Spicy Mutton Steak Ingredients  2 mutton steaks, 2 tablespoons cooking oil, ¼ cup water, fresh coriander leaves chopped (for garnish) For the marinade:  2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2½ teaspoons paprika, 2 teaspoons cumin powder, 2 teaspoons chilli powder, 2½ tablespoons lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon salt, ½ tablespoon black pepper, and 2 teaspoons brown sugar. Instructions First, mix the marinade ingredients into a paste and rub it over the mutton steaks. Marinate it for 4 hours or overnight. Next, heat the oil in a pan over high heat and sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping once, until a golden crust forms.  Read more: Urban Agriculture: Top 10 Monsoon Vegetables to Grow in Bangladesh Then, reduce heat to medium, add the remaining marinade, and cook the steaks in their juices for 4-5 minutes. After that, remove the steaks and let them rest for 5 minutes. Deglaze the pan with water, let it bubble until slightly reduced, then add fresh coriander and pour over the steaks. 

Street food is a delightful and integral part of many cultures, offering unique culinary experiences that are often unparalleled. Bangladesh's vibrant street food scene is a feast for the senses, featuring delicious snacks and meals at every corner, from savory fuchka to sweet jilapi. These culinary delights are a must-try for any visitor. However, it is crucial to be mindful of potential health risks associated with street food, especially for those with sensitive stomachs. Here is how you can savor street food safely in Bangladesh. Tips for Eating Street Food Safely Check Reviews In the digital age, many food bloggers and reviewers provide insights into the quality and safety of street food vendors. Before buying food from a particular roadside stall, check online reviews. These reviews often highlight the hygiene practices of the vendors and the overall quality of the food. This can be an invaluable resource for making informed decisions about where to eat. Inspect the Vendor's Cleanliness Before deciding to purchase street food, take a moment to observe the vendor's cleanliness. Check if their hands are clean and if they use gloves or tongs when handling food. A vendor who maintains personal hygiene is likely to adhere to better food safety practices, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. The way a vendor handles food is a good indicator of their overall hygiene standards. Read more: Fridge Smells Bad? Reasons and How to Get Rid of It Assess the Cleanliness of the Stall The overall cleanliness of the food stall is another critical factor. Look for vendors who keep their cooking area and utensils clean and avoid those with overflowing bins or dirty utensils. A clean environment signifies good hygiene practices. Stalls that are well-organized and tidy are more likely to follow safe food handling practices, which helps in minimizing the risk of contamination. Go for Freshly Cooked Food Whenever possible, choose food that is cooked right in front of you. Freshly prepared foods are delicious and less likely to be at risk of spoilage. Foods that are left out for long periods can harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of illness. Opting for freshly cooked items ensures that you are consuming food that is less likely to have been contaminated. Observe Cooking Practices Watch how the food is being cooked. Ensure that hot foods are served hot and cold foods are served cold. Proper cooking temperatures are crucial for killing harmful bacteria. Additionally, observe if the vendor avoids cross-contamination by handling raw and cooked foods separately. These practices are vital for maintaining food safety. Read more: Urban Agriculture: Top 10 Monsoon Vegetables to Grow in Bangladesh Choose Busy Vendors Usually, a street food stall becomes popular for serving fresh and tasty foods. Therefore, it is best to opt for stalls with a high customer turnover. A busy vendor is often a sign of good food quality and safety. High turnover means that the food is being sold quickly, reducing the chances of it sitting out and becoming contaminated. Avoid Foods Washed with Tap Water In many places, tap water is not safe for consumption. Avoid eating foods that are washed with tap water, such as salads and raw vegetables. Contaminated water can carry harmful pathogens that lead to foodborne illnesses. It is suggested to opt for foods that do not require washing or are washed with safe water.

Food authorities in Denmark have recalled three types of spicy instant noodle products imported from South Korea over possible risks for “acute poisoning.” Consumers are asked to discard them or return the noodles to the retailer. The noodles are made by Seoul-based Samyang Foods, one of South Korea’s largest companies, and sold across the globe. The recalled noodles include Buldak Samyang 3 x Spicy & Hot Chicken, Buldak Samyang 2 x Spicy & Hot Chicken and Buldak Samyang Hot Chicken Stew. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration said the products contain an overly high dose of capsaicin, an active ingredient in chile peppers but also a chemical that can be a neurotoxin and a health hazard. Children and teenagers in Denmark have been daring each other on social media to eat “a strong bowl of noodle soup,” referring to the three South Korean products, the agency said. Summer Drinks: Refreshing Homemade Sherbets to Beat the Heat “The noodle dishes marketed as extremely strong must no longer be sold because consumers and especially children risk acute poisoning,” it said late Tuesday. "The capsaicin content is so high that it can pose a health hazard.” Children and frail adults and the elderly are at risk, said Henrik Dammand Nielsen of the Danish Food and Drug Administration. Possibly symptoms include burning and discomfort, nausea, vomiting and high blood pressure, he said. “That is why we are now demanding shops remove the products from their shelves,” the agency said. In a statement to reporters, Samyang said it understands that the steps taken in Denmark were not based on product quality issues but because local authorities thought “they were too spicy and could potentially cause problems.” The company said the same noodles are exported worldwide but it was the first time they were ordered to recall them in any market. “We will closely study local regulations while responding to this recall measure,” the company said. Spicy food challenges have been around for years. From local chile pepper eating contests to restaurant walls of fame for those who finished extra hot dishes, people around the world have been daring each other to eat especially fiery foods. In September, a Massachusetts teen with a congenital heart defect who participated in a spicy tortilla chip challenge on social media died from eating a large quantity of chile pepper extract. An autopsy report obtained by The Associated Press showed that the 10th grader died on Sept. 1, 2023, after eating the Paqui chip as part of the manufacturer’s “One Chip Challenge.” Microgreens: Nutrition, Health Benefits, and How to Grow In Denmark, a puzzled consumer reached out to the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration and asked how the instant noodles could be legal, the agency said, after which it had a lab assessing the products and determined the three noodle brands can be harmful to health, instigating the recall. "It is important that parents are aware of the extreme noodle varieties and avoid them, Dammand Nielsen said.

Opening your fridge only to be hit with a foul smell can be an unpleasant experience. What causes these unpleasant odors in your refrigerator? Typically, forgotten leftovers, food spills, and rotten produce are the main culprits. Fortunately, a few simple home remedies can help you reclaim your fridge as a fresh and odor-free zone. Let’s explore the causes of these unwanted smells and discover how to keep your refrigerator and freezer smelling delightful. Reasons for Bad Odors in Refrigerators and Freezers Spoiled Food The most common cause of bad smells in a fridge is decomposing food. Forgotten leftovers and expired items, especially fruits and vegetables, can rot and emit strong, foul smells. Regularly checking and disposing of expired foods is essential to prevent these situations. Spills and Stains Leaked liquids from food containers or packages, such as soups, broths, and juices, can seep into refrigerator shelves, creating persistent odors. These spills can leave behind stains that, if not promptly and thoroughly cleaned, produce bad smells over time. Bacterial growth in these spills also contributes to unpleasant odors. Regular cleaning and prompt attention to spills can prevent these issues. Read more: Bug-free Home: How to get rid of insects indoors Improper Storage Unsealed food allows odors to permeate the refrigerator. Strong-smelling foods, such as fish, garlic, and onions, can release potent smells if not kept in airtight containers. These odors can transfer to other items in the fridge. Proper storage helps contain these odors and keeps the refrigerator smelling fresh. Dirty or Clogged Drains Refrigerators often have drain holes that can become clogged with food particles and debris, leading to musty or sour smells. Additionally, condensation drains can harbor bacteria and mold if not regularly cleaned, contributing to unpleasant odors. Regular maintenance of these drains is crucial to prevent such issues. Mold and Mildew Excess moisture from humidity or leaks can lead to mold and mildew growth, emitting a musty odor. Mold can thrive in hidden areas, such as under shelves or in the lining of door seals. Regularly checking and drying these spots helps prevent these unpleasant smells. Read more: Top 10 Bathroom Plants to grow in humid environment of shower Faulty Appliance Parts Problems with the defrost system can cause ice buildup, trapping and intensifying odors. Additionally, malfunctioning filters in some refrigerators, if not replaced regularly, can become sources of bad smells. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of filters can help prevent these issues.

In Dhaka and other urban areas of Bangladesh, residents often face exorbitant vegetable prices and poor-quality produce. Growing vegetables on rooftops and in yards offers a solution, providing nutritious food and saving money. The monsoon season, with its abundant rainfall and favorable temperatures, is perfect for cultivating a variety of vegetables. Let's explore ten vegetables that thrive in the monsoon season and can be easily grown in urban areas of Bangladesh. Best Vegetables for Monsoon Gardening in Bangladesh Bottle Gourd (Lau) Bottle gourd, with a growing period of 60-120 days, is ideal for the monsoon season due to its rapid growth and high-water content. It is rich in fibers, vitamins C and B, calcium, and magnesium. Bottle gourd requires a sturdy trellis for support and good drainage to prevent waterlogging. As a climbing plant, it utilizes vertical space efficiently, making it perfect for terrace gardens. Okra (Bhindi) Okra, known for its vitamins A, K1, and C, magnesium, fiber, antioxidants, and folate, takes about two months to grow and thrives in warm, humid conditions. Ideal for the monsoon season, okra can be grown in pots or directly in the soil, requiring moderate watering and well-drained soil. Read more: Delightful Recipes from Bangladeshi Kitchens to Savor on Rainy Days Spinach (Palong Shak) Spinach provides carotenoids, vitamins C and K, folic acid, iron, and calcium. It matures within 45-60 days, depending on the variety. Spinach grows quickly during the rainy season and prefers slightly shaded areas and shallow containers for cultivation. Regular harvesting of leaves encourages continuous growth, making it a reliable and nutritious addition to your monsoon garden. Cucumber (Shosha) Cucumbers are high in water content and contain vitamins K, C, and A, calcium, sodium, and iron. They help relieve dehydration and benefit skin health. Cucumbers are ready to harvest in 50-70 days after planting. Flourishing in the wet, warm monsoon weather, cucumbers need well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Trellising helps save space and keeps the fruit clean and healthy. Eggplant (Begun) Eggplants are nutrient-rich, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals beneficial for overall health, including heart health. They usually take 80-90 days to grow from seed. Eggplants love warmth and can be grown in large pots or garden beds. They require regular watering and well-drained soil. The plant produces beautiful purple fruits used in various culinary dishes. Read more: Microgreens: Nutrition, Health Benefits, and How to Grow Radish (Mula) Radishes, small yet packed with nutrients, are an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that may help combat cellular damage. High in fiber but low in calories, radishes also contain CoQ10, B vitamins, calcium, and potassium. With a growing period of 55-60 days, radishes need well-drained soil and regular watering. Both the roots and leaves are edible and nutritious. Flat Beans (Sheem) Flat beans are rich in proteins, fiber, and vitamins A, K, and C. Regular consumption can help lower blood sugar levels. Flat beans take 16 to 20 weeks to reach maturity and thrive in the humid monsoon climate. They can be grown in containers or directly in the ground, needing support for climbing varieties and consistent moisture. Bitter Gourd (Korola) Despite its bitter taste, bitter gourd is celebrated as a superfood due to its numerous health benefits. It is low in calories but enriched with essential nutrients, including vitamins B1, B2, B3, C, magnesium, folic acid, zinc, phosphorus, manganese, iron, and high dietary fiber. Read more: 9 Best Indoor Water Plants That Require Minimal Care Bitter gourd thrives in the monsoon season, requiring a trellis for climbing and benefits from regular harvesting to promote more fruit production. It takes about 55-60 days from seed sowing to the first harvest. Tomato Tomatoes are a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins C and K, potassium, folate, and antioxidants. They thrive during the monsoon season but require protection from excessive rain to avoid fungal diseases. Growing tomatoes under a roof or using stakes for support helps maintain healthy plants and promotes fruitful yields. With a growing period of 90-110 days, tomatoes are a valuable addition to your monsoon garden. Coriander (Dhonepata) Coriander leaves are an exceptional source of vitamins A and C, offering other essential nutrients like dietary fiber, iron, manganese, calcium, vitamin K, and phosphorus. Read more: Best Air Purifying Plants to Reduce Indoor Air Pollution of Home/Office Coriander grows abundantly during the rainy season in slightly shaded areas with well-drained soil. Regular trimming stimulates bushier growth and extends the harvest period. Coriander typically matures within 40-45 days, adding ornamental beauty and nutritional value to your garden.

Rainy days bring a sense of tranquility and comfort, as the pitter-patter of raindrops creates a soothing melody. Amidst the serenity, there is nothing like indulging in hearty, flavourful dishes that warm the soul. In Bangladeshi kitchens, rainy days call for special recipes that elevate the culinary experience. From spicy curries to tangy delights, here are five special recipes perfect for a rainy day retreat at home. 5 Special Recipes to Try at Home on Rainy Days Achari Letka Khichuri Ingredients ½ cup of rice, 1/4th cup of masoor dal/red lentils, 1/4th cup of moong dal/yellow lentils, 1 onion (thinly sliced), 2 cloves of garlic (roughly chopped), 4 green chillies, 1 teaspoon panchforon, 1 dry red chilli, 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon red chilli powder, 1 teaspoon garam masala powder and ½ teaspoon cumin powder, 3 tablespoons of mustard oil, 2 tablespoons of mango pickle, some green peas, salt and sugar, and warm water.  Instructions First, combine rice and two types of lentils in a bowl. Then, wash them thoroughly. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala powder and cumin powder.  Read more: Delicious Oatmeal Recipes for Weight Loss Then pour in mustard oil and a pinch of salt, mixing everything well. Leave it to marinate for 15 minutes. Now, heat 1 tablespoon of mustard oil in a pan, then add panchforon and dry red chilli. Next, sauté the ingredients briefly. After that, add the rice-lentil mixture, and cook for 3 minutes.  Next, add 2 cups of warm water, salt, green chillies, green peas, and a pinch of sugar. Let it boil, then lower the heat and simmer covered for 15-20 minutes until the ingredients are tender. Stir in sour mango pickle and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Let it rest for 2 minutes before serving.

The scorching heat of summer can be relentless, making it essential to find ways to stay cool and hydrated. While the allure of roadside summer drinks is undeniable, they often come with health risks due to questionable ingredients and hygiene standards. Fortunately, there is a safer and more delicious alternative – homemade sherbets. Let's explore 10 revitalising sherbet recipes to try this summer to fight heat related illnesses. 10 Homemade Sherbet Recipes to Beat Dehydration This Summer Raw Mango Sherbet Aam Panna, or raw mango sherbet, is a quintessential summer drink in Bangladesh for combating the sweltering heat packed with both flavour and health benefits. Made from raw mangoes, it presents a tantalising blend of tartness and sweetness. This refreshing beverage is rich in vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining hydration and boosting immunity.  To make Aam Panna, simply blend raw boiled, peeled mangoes with mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, sugar, and water until smooth. To impart a smoky nuance, consider roasting the mangoes beforehand. Serve chilled over ice for a revitalising treat that not only quenches thirst but also replenishes electrolytes and provides a burst of tropical goodness. Read more: How to Protect Outdoor Workers from Heat Stroke Tamarind Sherbet Tamarind sherbet offers a tangy and refreshing escape from the scorching summer heat. Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium it offers a sweet-tart punch. It aids in replenishing electrolytes lost during sweating, thus combating dehydration.  To prepare this invigorating drink, combine tamarind pulp with water, sugar or honey, and a dash of salt. Allow the mixture to steep with a cinnamon stick, then strain and chill before serving over ice. Indulge in the zesty flavour and hydrating benefits of tamarind sherbet to stay cool and refreshed all summer long. Rose Petal Sherbet Rose petal sherbet embodies a fragrant and floral essence, offering a delightful respite from summer's heat. While lower in electrolytes than some options, it can provide some hydration and is a lovely source of antioxidants. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it supports hydration and boosts immunity.  Read more: Beat Dehydration with These Summer Vegetables To concoct this rejuvenating elixir, steep fresh rose petals in water, then strain and mix with sugar or honey and a splash of lemon juice. Serve chilled over ice for a cooling sensation that not only tantalises the taste buds but also replenishes vital fluids lost through perspiration. Sip on rose petal sherbet to invigorate your senses and combat dehydration effortlessly. Bael Sherbet Bael sherbet, a summer delight, boasts a unique flavour and impressive health benefits. Made with the pulp of the wood apple (bael), it offers a sweet-tart taste with a hint of citrus. This golden drink is a powerhouse of Vitamin C, supporting immunity and fighting inflammation.  But bael truly shines in its role against dehydration.  The pulp is rich in fibre and natural electrolytes, helping your body retain fluids and recover from sweat loss.  To create this revitalising drink, simply mash the pulp of a ripe bael with water, strain, and add sugar or honey to taste.  A pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice complete this refreshing and rehydrating summer beverage.  Read more: How to Protect Your Skin and Hair from Sun Damage Watermelon Sherbet Cool off with watermelon sherbet, a naturally hydrating summer treat. Made with blended watermelon, this refreshing pink drink is packed with water, making it a delicious weapon against dehydration.  Watermelon boasts vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium and lycopene. It supports immunity and healthy vision.  The recipe is simple: freeze seedless watermelon cubes, then blend them smooth with a touch of lime juice or honey for extra zing. Enjoy this refreshing sherbet for a hydrating and nutritious summer. 

As the temperatures soar during the scorching summer months, it becomes increasingly crucial to prioritise hydration. Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in. Dehydration may lead your body to adverse effects ranging from fatigue and headaches to more severe complications like heatstroke. While it is common knowledge to increase water intake during hot weather, many overlook the hydrating potential of the summer vegetables. Why Incorporate Summer Veggies into Your Diet Maintaining adequate hydration levels is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Water is essential for regulating body temperature, aiding digestion, transporting nutrients, and flushing out toxins. Dehydration can lead to a range of adverse effects, including fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and even more severe complications like heatstroke.  By staying adequately hydrated, you can enhance cognitive function, improve physical performance, and support organ function. Make it a priority to drink water regularly throughout the day to ensure optimal hydration and vitality, especially in the summer heat.  Read more: How to Protect Your Skin and Hair from Sun Damage Summer veggies are rich in diverse vitamins and nutrients. Adding vegetables to regular meals can help you stay hydrated and healthy during the warmer months. Let’s take a look into some nutritious summer veggies to fight dehydration this summer. Nutritious Summer Vegetables to Beat Dehydration . Cucumber Cucumbers are hydrating vegetables packed with nutrients like vitamins A, B, and C, along with minerals such as potassium and magnesium. With a water content over 95%, they replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, aiding hydration.  Enjoy cucumbers sliced in salads, sandwiches, or refreshing cucumber mint smoothies for a hydrating boost. Incorporating cucumbers into your diet regularly can promote skin health, aid digestion, and support overall well-being. Aim for at least one or two cups of cucumber daily to reap its hydrating benefits. Read more: Summer Safety Tips for Elderly to Avoid Heat-related Illnesses Tomatoes Tomatoes are hydrating vegetables boasting a water content of around 94%. Rich in vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants like lycopene, they support immune function and promote heart health. You may incorporate tomatoes into your diet to enjoy their hydrating benefits.  Try them tossed in salads or sandwiches, blended into soups, or roasted with herbs for a flavourful side dish. It is recommended to include 1 or 2 tomatoes in your meals regularly to hydrate your body and boost your health.  Bell Peppers Bell peppers, with a water content of approximately 92%, are hydrating vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. They support immune function, promote healthy vision, and reduce inflammation. You can incorporate bell peppers into your meals to enjoy their hydrating benefits.  Read more: 7 Comforting Soups for Upset Stomach Add them to stir-fries, salads, or stuffed pepper recipes for a colourful and nutritious dish. Experts suggest limiting having one bell pepper in a day in your diet to stay hydrated and nourished, especially during hot weather without causing bloating or gas. Lettuce Lettuce varieties like iceberg and romaine are primarily composed of water. It is a hydrating vegetable that provides essential nutrients like vitamins A, K, and C, as well as folate and iron. It supports healthy skin, boosts immunity, and aids digestion.  Try to include lettuce in your diet for hydration and nutrition. Use it as a base for salads, wraps, or sandwiches for a refreshing and low-calorie meal option. Enjoy lettuce regularly to stay hydrated and promote overall well-being, aiming for around or less than two cups of green leaf lettuce per day.  Read more: 5 Mouth-watering Mango Pickle Recipes to Cherish This Summer Spinach Spinach, packed with water, is a hydrating vegetable loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, potassium and folate. It supports bone health, boosts immunity, and aids in blood clotting.   Add one handful of spinach daily into your diet for hydration and nutrition. Add it to salads, smoothies, or cooked dishes for a nutritious boost. These can help you to stay hydrated and reap its numerous health benefits.