Enjoy the classic charm of Thandai, a chilled, creamy milk beverage flavored with a royal blend of nuts, spices, and floral essences, during Indian festivities. Thandai is a rich and cool beverage that combines tradition with flavor, perfect for Holi, Shivratri, or a sweltering summer day.
Thandai Recipe :
Are you interested in trying a tasty, nutritious, and distinctive Indian beverage? A centuries-old beverage, thandai combines the cooling qualities of fennel, poppy seeds, and aromatic spices with the richness of milk and almonds. It is a classic favorite that is always in style.
History of the Recipe :
For ages, Thandai has been a staple of North Indian cuisine. With roots in Ayurveda, Thandai is a traditional Indian beverage with a long history that stretches back to the legendary era.It is thought to have been utilized as a revitalizing and cooling elixir, particularly in the sweltering summer months.Lord Shiva plays an important role in the drink’s history, and its connection to Holi is also firmly anchored in mythology.
Thandai Recipe – Traditional Holi Drink with Nuts, Spices & Rose
Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 10 almonds (soaked)
- 5 cashew nuts (optional)
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds (khus khus)
- 1 tbsp fennel seeds (saunf)
- ½ tbsp melon seeds
- 5 black peppercorns
- 4 green cardamom pods
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- 1 tbsp rose water
- 3 tbsp sugar (or to taste)
- Crushed ice (for serving)
- Chopped nuts & dried rose petals (for garnish)
Instructions
- Soak the Ingredients : Soak almonds, cashews, fennel, poppy seeds, melon seeds, peppercorns, and cardamom in water for 1 hour. Peel the almonds after soaking.
- Grind to Paste : Drain and grind all the soaked ingredients with a little milk into a smooth paste.
- Boil the Milk : Heat milk in a saucepan. Once it starts simmering, add saffron and sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
- Add Thandai Paste : Add the prepared spice-nut paste to the milk. Mix thoroughly and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Cool and Strain : Remove from heat. Once slightly cool, strain the mixture using a fine sieve or muslin cloth.
- Add Rose Water : Mix in the rose water and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Serve : Pour chilled Thandai into glasses, garnish with chopped nuts and dried rose petals. Serve cold with crushed ice if desired.
Notes
- Straining the drink helps improve texture and remove coarse particles.
- Adjust sugar to your liking or substitute with jaggery or honey.
- You can make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
Tips for Thandai Recipe :
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For a smoother paste, use blanched or pre-soaked almonds.
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A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a spicy touch.
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If saffron is not available, you can omit it; it is optional but provides color and scent.
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Use coconut milk or almond milk for vegan Thandai
FAQs for Thandai Recipe :
Q1: Is it possible to prepare Thandai in advance?
Indeed! It can be prepared and kept for two to three days in the refrigerator. Chilling enhances the flavor even further.
Q2: Does bhang always go into making Thandai?
No, although it is optional, bhang (cannabis) is customarily added during Holi. The majority are bhang-free and non-alcoholic.
Q3: Is it okay to forego rose water?
Rose water does lend a lovely floral smell, though. Dried rose petals are another option.
Q4: Does Thandai have any health benefits?
In moderation, yes. It’s pleasant and healthy because the ingredients are high in calcium, antioxidants, and digestive aides.
Conclusion :
Thandai has strong cultural roots in India and is a refreshing, healthy, and tasty beverage. It is the ideal way to celebrate Holi or just to cool off in the summer thanks to its flavorful spices, creamy texture, and refreshing aftertaste. Enjoy a hint of tradition with each drink if you try preparing it at home.
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