Mung Kekiri (cucumber Cooler)
Tea & Drinks • Sri Lanka
ගැන Mung Kekiri (Cucumber Cooler)
Cucumber juice with lime and mint — cooling day drink.
How to Make Mung Kekiri (Cucumber Cooler) (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Mung Kekiri, also known as the Sri Lankan Cucumber Cooler, is a refreshing and light beverage that perfectly captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s tropical climate. Traditionally enjoyed across the island, especially during the hottest months, this drink features the unique 'mung kekiri' cucumber native to Sri Lanka, known for its subtle sweetness and gentle, cooling properties. The beverage is a staple in local households, often served to quench thirst and provide relief from the tropical sun. This vegan and vegetarian-friendly drink is prepared with fresh mung kekiri cucumbers, lime, and a touch of natural sweetness, offering a hydrating and revitalizing experience. Its crisp, mildly sweet flavor is delicately balanced with tangy lime and aromatic fresh mint, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a healthy, low-calorie beverage. Mung Kekiri is not only a testament to Sri Lankan culinary traditions but also a modern favorite for anyone seeking wholesome refreshment. Whether you are looking to cool down after a spicy Sri Lankan meal or searching for a nutritious drink to boost your day, the Mung Kekiri Cucumber Cooler delivers a taste of Sri Lanka’s vibrant food culture. Its simple ingredients and ease of preparation make it accessible for home cooks worldwide, while its health benefits align perfectly with contemporary wellness trends.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (approx. 250ml) per serving)
- 2 medium Mung kekiri cucumber (Sri Lankan cucumber; substitute with regular cucumber if unavailable)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lime juice (from 1-2 limes)
- 2 cups Cold water (filtered)
- 1 tablespoon Palm sugar or kithul treacle (or use honey for non-vegan version) - optional
- 6-8 leaves Fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- as needed Ice cubes (for serving) - optional
- a pinch Salt (to enhance flavor) - optional
- a pinch Black pepper (freshly ground, optional) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash, peel, and slice the mung kekiri cucumbers. Remove seeds if large and chop into chunks.
3 minutes
Chill the cucumbers before use for an extra refreshing drink.
- 2
Add the cucumber chunks, fresh lime juice, and mint leaves to a blender.
2 minutes
Tear the mint leaves to release more aroma.
- 3
Pour in cold water and add palm sugar, salt, and black pepper if using.
1 minute
Adjust sweetness and salt to taste after blending.
- 4
Blend until completely smooth and the mint is well incorporated.
2 minutes
Blend in short bursts to avoid overheating and preserve freshness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Sri Lankan cucumber cooler is a healthy beverage choice because it contains minimal sugar, no artificial additives, and is rich in nutrients. The combination of fresh cucumber, lime, and mint supports detoxification and promotes gut health. Its low-calorie profile makes it ideal for weight management, and the absence of dairy or gluten ensures it suits vegan and gluten-free diets.
Mung Kekiri (Cucumber Cooler) is packed with hydration, thanks to the high water content of cucumbers. It is naturally low in calories, carbs, and fat, making it suitable for most diets. Cucumbers provide vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, while mint aids digestion and lime adds a boost of vitamin C. This beverage supports hydration, skin health, and helps replenish electrolytes lost in hot weather.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use mung kekiri cucumbers for authentic flavor, but regular cucumbers work well too.
- 💡Chill all ingredients beforehand for the most refreshing drink.
- 💡Add a pinch of black salt for a savory twist, as done in some Sri Lankan homes.
Storage & Serving
Store the prepared beverage in a sealed jug in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving as natural separation may occur. Best consumed fresh.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 35.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7.4 g |
| Total Fat | 0.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |