Kokum Sharbat Recipe: Konkani Summer Cooler for the Whole Family
What Is Kokum?
Kokum (Garcinia indica) is a tropical fruit native to India's western coast — Goa, Konkan, Karnataka, and Kerala. The dried rind is deep purple-red and has been used for centuries in Konkani cuisine and Ayurveda for its cooling and digestive properties. Kokum sharbat is the region's signature summer drink, and it deserves to be known across India.
Health fact: Kokum contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), antioxidants, and Vitamin B complex. It is traditionally used to cool the body in extreme heat and aid digestion after heavy meals.
Kokum Sharbat Recipe (5L Batch for Glass Dispenser)
Ingredients for 5 Liters
- 200g dried kokum rinds (amsul) OR 250ml kokum syrup
- 250-300g sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
- Pinch of salt
- 4.5 liters chilled water
- Optional: 1 tablespoon roasted cumin powder
Method
- If using dried kokum: Soak 200g kokum rinds in 500ml warm water for 4-6 hours or overnight. Squeeze and strain to extract the deep red juice. Discard rinds.
- Make sugar syrup: Dissolve 250-300g sugar in 500ml warm water. Let cool.
- Combine in your glass dispenser: Pour kokum extract, sugar syrup, and cardamom powder through the wide mouth.
- Add 4 liters of chilled water and stir well.
- If using kokum syrup: Simply add 250ml kokum syrup directly to the dispenser with 4.5L water and sugar to taste. Much faster.
- Chill for 1-2 hours. The deep ruby-red color looks absolutely stunning through the clear glass.
- Check thermometer: Serve at 5-8 degrees C for the most refreshing taste.
Kokum Sharbat vs Sol Kadhi
Kokum sharbat is a sweet, fruity drink perfect for dispensers. Sol kadhi is a savory coconut milk-based preparation with kokum, garlic, and spices — served as a side dish with meals, not as a standalone drink. For your glass dispenser at a party, kokum sharbat is the right choice. Sol kadhi belongs in a serving bowl.
Where to Buy Kokum in India
- Online: Amazon India, BigBasket, Flipkart — search for "dried kokum" or "amsul"
- Local stores: Easily available in Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala
- Kokum syrup: Brands like Mapro, Daadi's, and local Goan brands sell ready-made kokum syrup — the easiest option
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kokum?
Kokum (Garcinia indica) is a tropical fruit native to India's western coast, especially Goa, Konkan, and Kerala. The dried rind is used to make sharbat, sol kadhi, and as a souring agent in cooking. It has cooling properties and is rich in antioxidants, hydroxycitric acid, and Vitamin B complex.
Where can I buy kokum in India?
Dried kokum rinds and kokum syrup are available on Amazon India, BigBasket, and local stores in Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala. If you cannot find dried kokum, kokum syrup (amsul syrup) is a convenient alternative that dissolves directly in water.
What is the difference between kokum sharbat and sol kadhi?
Kokum sharbat is a sweet, fruity drink made with kokum, sugar, and water. Sol kadhi is a savory coconut milk-based drink with kokum, garlic, and spices, served as a digestive with Konkani meals. Both use kokum but taste completely different. The sharbat is better suited for a beverage dispenser at parties.
Serve Drinks in Style
5L borosilicate glass, inbuilt thermometer, bamboo stand, 304 steel tap. 10-day free trial.
Shop Glass DispenserFree Shipping + Free Returns + 1-Year Warranty
Founder, InstaCuppa | Building kitchen tools that give busy Indian moms their time back
The kitchen takes your mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Your family gets what’s left.
InstaCuppa builds time-saving kitchen tools for busy Indian moms — so the kitchen stops stealing the moments you can’t get back.
Morning chai without rushing. Evening walks with your kids. Sundays that feel like Sundays.
More time for what matters.
Amazon
Top Brand
10+
Years in Business
5L+
Happy Customers
88%
Positive Ratings
As rated on Amazon.in
