Panamanian cuisine offers a vibrant blend of flavors, and panakam is a delightful example. This light and refreshing drink is perfect for a hot summer day, enjoyed on its own or as an accompaniment to a meal. Today, we’ll guide you through making panakam at home, sharing some tips for an authentic taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup jaggery (or brown sugar)
- 4 cups water
- 1 medium piece ginger, thinly sliced
- 3-4 cardamom pods, crushed slightly
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (or to taste)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the jaggery and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the jaggery dissolves completely.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup thickens slightly. The consistency should be slightly lighter than honey.
- Add the ginger, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the pan. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- Strain the syrup into a clean pitcher, discarding the ginger solids, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick.
- Let the panakam cool slightly. Once warm or at room temperature, stir in the lime juice. Taste and adjust the amount of lime juice for your desired level of tartness.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use palm jaggery instead of brown sugar.
- Don’t overcook the syrup. It should thicken slightly but remain pourable.
- Adjust the amount of black pepper according to your preference.
- You can dilute the panakam with additional water or ice for a cooler drink.
- Panakam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions:
- Panakam is traditionally served chilled. Pour it over ice cubes and garnish with a lime wedge for a refreshing drink.
- You can also use panakam as a base for other drinks, such as adding it to sparkling water or mixing it with fresh fruit juices for a flavorful twist.
- In Panama, panakam is sometimes enjoyed warm as a soothing beverage.
Additional Notes:
Panakam is a versatile drink with a unique flavor profile. The combination of jaggery or brown sugar with the warm spices and tart lime juice creates a delightful balance. Feel free to experiment with the amount of lime juice and black pepper to find your perfect taste.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this Panamanian treasure with your family and friends on Foodkly!