What is "jal-jeera"

Jal-jeera, or jaljira, is an Indian beverage. The spice mix used to flavor this drink is also known as Jal-jeera powder. In Hindi, "jal" means water and "jeera" means cumin. The beverage form is essentially lemonade and jaljira powder, and is a popular summer drink in India. It is sometimes served as an appetizer, as it is intended to "startle" the taste buds.

Jaljira powder generally consists of cumin, ginger, black pepper, mint, black salt, some fruit powder (usually either mango, or some kind of citrus zest), and chili or hot pepper powder.