What fruit is pandan?

Interestingly, the plant used to make this drink is not a fruit but an herbaceous tropical plant. It belongs to the screwpine family and thrives in warm, humid climates. While the leaves are the most commonly used part for cooking and beverages, the plant does produce a fruit in some species. However, this fruit is rarely consumed and is not related to the preparation of the drink. The leaves remain the star ingredient, valued for their fragrance and versatility in culinary traditions across Southeast Asia.

What does pandan juice taste like?

The flavor is unlike any other. It combines a sweet, floral aroma with hints of vanilla and coconut, resulting in a unique taste profile that’s both delicate and rich. When prepared correctly, it has a refreshing sweetness that pairs well with both savory and sweet dishes. Some describe the taste as slightly nutty with grassy undertones, creating a balance between herbal freshness and dessert-like warmth. Its mild sweetness makes it an appealing choice for those who prefer lightly flavored beverages.

What is pandan juice good for?

This traditional beverage offers more than just a pleasant taste. It is known to have calming properties, making it popular for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Some cultures use it to help lower blood pressure, relieve headaches, and soothe mild fevers. The antioxidants present in the leaves also contribute to improved immunity and may help combat inflammation. Additionally, it supports digestive health by reducing bloating and aiding in toxin elimination. Because it’s caffeine-free, it’s a great hydrating option suitable for all ages.

What is in pandan juice?

This refreshing drink is made from a few simple ingredients. The core element is the long, narrow leaves of the tropical screwpine plant. These leaves are blended with water to extract their flavor and vibrant green color. The resulting extract is then combined with a lightly sweetened syrup, creating a drink that is both fragrant and soothing. Sometimes, variations include the addition of coconut milk or other flavorings to enhance the taste. The natural oils in the leaves are what give the beverage its distinctive aroma, while the sugar balances out the subtle grassy notes.

Pandan Juice – The Best Delicious Thai Drink You Must Taste (2025)

Description

Refreshing pandan juice made from fragrant pandan leaves, infused with simple syrup for a naturally aromatic and sweet beverage served over ice.

Ingredients

Scale

4 pandan leaves
2.5 cups water
4 tablespoons sugar

Instructions

Wash the pandan leaves thoroughly. Cut 2 of the pandan leaves into 1-inch lengths, giving about ½ cup of leaf pieces.
Combine ½ cup of pandan leaf pieces with ½ cup of water in a blender. Blend until the leaves are broken down, then strain to extract ½ cup of bright green pandan extract.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups of water, 4 tablespoons sugar, and the remaining 2 pandan leaves (cut or knotted). Simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the syrup with pandan aroma. Let it cool.
Mix ½ cup pandan extract with 2 cups pandan-infused simple syrup. Chill in the refrigerator.
Serve the pandan juice over a glass of crushed ice and garnish with fresh pandan leaves if desired.

Notes

For a stronger flavor, allow the pandan leaves to steep in the syrup longer.
You can adjust the sugar to taste for more or less sweetness.
Serve immediately over ice for the best refreshing experience.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 60
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: pandan juice, pandan drink, Asian beverage, pandan extract, refreshing summer drink