What foods are sweet, bitter and astringent?
Milk and desserts made with milk, such as rice pudding (Khir), contain sweet tastes that are cooling in summer. Coconut can be added to foods in summer to sweeten them. Peach Chutney is a sweet condiment designed especially to balance Pitta dosha. Bitter tastes are found in green vegetables, especially the leafy greens. Cucumbers are also very cooling. Summer is the best time to enjoy fresh produce, so take advantage of all the fresh fruits and vegetables available.For the astringent taste, Cashew-Coconut Hummus, made from garbanzo beans, is an ideal summer sandwich spread. Dal, made from any of several beans or lentils, is a good astringent food for any season, and you can flavor it with cooling Pitta-pacifying spices, such as fennel, coriander, cardamom and fresh cilantro. Cumin seed can be added to stimulate the digestion, because it can get a little sluggish in summer. Q: What cooling summertime drinks do you suggest? A: Mint is a cooling herb that can be made into mint tea or adde
