By Aditi Saraswat
May 1, 2026
Bael juice is a classic Indian summer drink that is loved for its naturally sweet taste and the ability to cool down the stomach during intense heat. Thick, aromatic and refreshing, it is an easy homemade cooler that is best for hot afternoons.
1 medium ripe bael fruit 3 cups chilled water 3 to 4 tbsp jaggery or sugar (optional) 1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder 1 tbsp lemon juice 6 ice cubes Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Take a ripe bael and tap it firmly with a rolling pin or heavy knife. Break the shell and then scoop out its pulp into the bowl.
To the bowl, add one cup of water and let the pulp soak for about ten minutes, to let the fibres turn soft and loosen their flesh.
With clean hands or a spoon, mash the soaked pulp nicely. Separate the soft fruit from the seeds as much as possible.
In a jug or deep vessel, pour the mixture through a strainer and press the pulp to extract the remaining juice.
Add remaining chilled water, jaggery, lemon juice and roasted cumin powder to the juice.
Add the ice cubes to the glass and pour the prepared bael juice, and serve instantly for the best summer refreshment.