Uttarakhand’s traditional smoky drink – [Palar] : keep hydrated in summer

In light of the steadily rising temperatures across the state, the Health Department has issued an advisory urging people to stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids. In this context, “Palar,” a traditional Uttarakhand drink made from buttermilk, is a refreshing, cooling digestive drink that helps keep the body hydrated during the summer. Also known as “Pahadi Buttermilk” or “Smoky Fermented Buttermilk,” Pallar is brewed in a clay pot.

Palar is a smoky, locally spiced buttermilk made in a clay pot, typically prepared at weddings and served as a special drink to guests. A spice paste of asafoetida, cumin, black pepper, cloves and cardamom is added to palar, which gives it a cooling and flavourful effect. Along with the smoky flavour, it also has the taste of asafoetida and mustard, which cools the body. The traditional spices and the goodness of buttermilk present in it help in digesting heavy food and it is also a better and natural alternative to caffeine and artificial drinks. To avoid the scorching heat and heat stroke, this drink cools the stomach and energizes the body.