How to Make Thums Up Charged No Sugar (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Thums Up Charged No Sugar is a refreshing beverage option that has become popular among Malaysians seeking a bold, fizzy drink without the extra calories. While its roots may be inspired by Indian cola traditions, Malaysians have embraced this sugar-free soda, especially during festive gatherings and family events. The local twist often incorporates natural flavors like pandan and lemongrass, which reflect the multicultural essence of Malaysia’s food culture. This beverage delivers a vibrant, effervescent experience, making it ideal for hot Malaysian afternoons or as a healthier alternative at celebrations. Thums Up Charged No Sugar stands out because it offers the classic cola taste without the sugar rush, making it suitable for those mindful of calorie intake. The recipe below enhances the drink with local botanicals, such as daun pandan and serai (lemongrass), adding aromatic layers that pair beautifully with traditional kuih or light snacks. This adaptation fits seamlessly into Malaysia’s diverse culinary landscape, offering a guilt-free refreshment with a uniquely local flair.
Ingredients
- 500 ml Thums Up Charged No Sugar (chilled)
- 2 leaves Daun pandan (pandan leaf) (tied in a knot)
- 1 stalk Serai (lemongrass) (lightly bruised)
- 1 fruit Limau nipis (local lime) (juiced)
- 1 cup Ais batu (ice cubes)
- 4-6 leaves Daun pudina (mint leaves) (for garnish)
- 2-3 drops Stevia drops (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 2-4 slices Thin lime slices (for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the glass by placing 1 daun pandan (pandan leaf) and half t...
Prepare the glass by placing 1 daun pandan (pandan leaf) and half the bruised serai (lemongrass) in each glass.
Step 2 · Add the ice cubes to each glass to keep the drink chilled and refre...
Add the ice cubes to each glass to keep the drink chilled and refreshing.
Step 3 · Pour 250 ml of Thums Up Charged No Sugar into each glass over the p...
Pour 250 ml of Thums Up Charged No Sugar into each glass over the pandan and lemongrass.
Step 4 · Squeeze half a limau nipis (local lime) into each glass
Squeeze half a limau nipis (local lime) into each glass, adjusting to your preferred tanginess.
Step 5 · Optionally
Optionally, add 1-2 drops of stevia for extra sweetness without calories.
Step 6 · Gently stir each glass to infuse the flavors
Gently stir each glass to infuse the flavors, ensuring the pandan and lemongrass are well mixed.
Step 7 · Garnish with mint leaves and thin lime slices for a vibrant
Garnish with mint leaves and thin lime slices for a vibrant, aromatic touch.
Why this recipe is healthy
This recipe is a healthy choice because it uses a sugar-free base, making it suitable for weight management and diabetes-friendly diets. By incorporating local herbs like pandan and lemongrass, you gain extra antioxidants and unique flavors without extra calories. The absence of dairy and gluten makes it an inclusive option for those with common allergies. Overall, it's a refreshing, guilt-free beverage that fits a balanced Malaysian diet.
A note on tradition
While Thums Up Charged No Sugar has Indian origins, its sugar-free, fizzy profile has found a place in Malaysian homes, especially in urban areas and during festive seasons like Hari Raya and Deepavali. Malaysians love to enhance beverages with local botanicals, which adds a multicultural flair and makes this drink suitable for all ethnic backgrounds. It’s often served at open houses or as a palate cleanser during heavy meals.