Panakam / jaggery pepper Drink

This sunday is Srirama Navami and the first thing that came to my mind is Panakam.
Srinava Navami falls on first navami(9th day) of the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Rama every year. Panakam and vadapappu are the two things that are must offered as nivedyams(offerings) to Lord Rama on this day.
Here is how my mom used to make the Panakam.

Ingredients

3 tbsp grated jaggery
2 cups water
1/2 tbsp gated ginger or 1 tsp of ginger powder
1 cardamon pod crushed
1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Method

Dissolve grated jaggery in water. Add the gated ginger, crushed cardamon and pepper to jaggery water and mix well. Let sit on the counter for 20 to 30 minutes, to let all the flavors steep in. Strain the liquid through the strainer and discard the residue. add ice or chill in the freezer before serving.
If you do not have grater on hand just crush small piece of ginger and throw it in.

Note

Use fresh ginger if you have on hand. Fresh ginger adds little punch to the drink.
Add a dash of lemon for added taste.

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