Thaneites learn ‘cool’, unique delicacies to beat the summer heat

THANE: While the rising heat is bringing about summer blues, Thaneites are finding natural ways to keep cool.
Residents are learning how to use natural edible coolers like red pumpkins, mango shots, seasonal fruit mocktails, salads and salsas in their meals to beat the heat. City culinary artists say people want to learn to make innovative coolers and do not prefer juices and milkshakes anymore.
“Juices and milkshakes are way too common. Most people who come to me want to learn innovative coolers like seasonal fruit mock tails, frozen fruit sugar juice which are also called sorbets, salsa ice creams and so on,” said Priti Doke, a Kharkar Ali-based chef.
“There are many takers for innovative and cooling appetizers, main courses and snacks in addition to desserts and coolers. Adding curd or milk to jeera and rice can make a plain rice dish yummy and cooling. Using seasonal fruits and vegetables like watermelon, berries, doodhi and red pumpkin in salads or vegetables is also a good idea,” said Prannoti Borse, a chef from Thane.
Smita Kulkarni from Naupada says that her six-year-old son only asks for ice cream and juice, which prompted her to join a workshop which taught her to make innovative dishes like coconut pudding and pudina kofta. Kulkarni also makes simple dishes look appetizing by adding different berries.