Tea or chai, as most Indians refer to it, is undoubtedly the most loved beverage in the country, isn't it? When it comes to Indian cuisine, while the focus always remains on food, Indian beverages aren't that far behind that people love to savour across the world. And now, twho of the most loved drinks made in India have been ranked on the list of the top 100 drinks across the globe. TasteAtlas recently shared a list of the world's best 100 non-alcoholic beverages and believe it or not, there are two Indian iconic drinks that take the top two spots. Let's take a look at which are these drinks. But, before you read on, try guessing which ones could make this elite list. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 10. Thai Iced Tea | This combination of a strong black tea that is evaporated or condensed with milk, sugar, and spices is served with crushed ice. The drink is usually made with loose-leaf black tea such as Assam, Ceylon, or Keemun tea varieties. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 9. Hojicha | A Japanese roasted green tea, Hojicha, is made with bancha or sencha green tea that is roasted over high heat. During roasting, the tea attains a certain brown colour and usually has roast-like notes of coffee, cocoa, and caramel. Its flavour is earthy and subtly sweet, with a tint of roasted flavours. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 8. Salep | Usually consumed during winter months, Turkish Salep is made with the stem or tuber of the wild orchid, which is boiled, dried, and ground to produce a starchy powder. It is then mixed with hot milk, ginger, and cinnamon to give it a soothing flavour. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 7. Papelon con Limon | A traditional Venezuelan cold drink, Papelon con Limon, is made with only three ingredients, including piloncillo, limes, and water. It is a popular summer beverage and is very refreshing. The drink also does not taste very sweet, thus making it a perfect option to pair with traditional food items. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 6. Lulada | Another exotic drink that comes from the El Valle region of Colombia, Lulada is a cold, refreshing beverage that is made with mashed lulos, lime juice, water, sugar, and ice. Also known as 'naranjilla', the drink is a perfect combination for those who love sweet and tart at the same time and can also be served with a shot of vodka. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 5. Colada Morada | A drink originating from Ecuador, Colada Morada, has also made it to the top 10 list of popular drinks around the globe. The purple-coloured beverage is made from water, black corn flour, spices, various fruits, and cane sugar. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 4. Ceylon Black Tea | Another variety of tea, Ceylon Black Tea, is also counted among the top 10 best beverages. Produced mainly in Sri Lanka, this beverage comes from the higher-elevation tea gardens located in the centre of the island country. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 3. Masala Chai | The undisputed leader of beverages in India, masala chai is the second-best non-alcoholic beverage in the world. Originating in India, the aromatic beverage is prepared with a combination of sweetened black tea and milk, often spiced with a masala mix. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 2. Mango Lassi | TasteAtlas lists mango lassi as the "best dairy beverage" in the world. Made with yoghurt and fresh mango, it also includes cardamom, water, and sugar, and its consistency is creamy and frothy. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 3. Aguas Frescas | A light, non-alcoholic beverage made with a combination of fruits, cucumbers, flowers, seeds, and cereals blended with sugar and water, Aguas Frescas has made it to the top 10 list. This drink is usually sold at eateries throughout Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. (Image: Shutterstock)