New Delhi: Thandai is a traditional Indian drink made from spiced milk, particularly popular during Holi. This refreshing beverage, often enjoyed in warmer months, is created from a blend of nuts, seeds, and aromatic spices. The name Thandai means “cooling,” highlighting its ability to refresh, making it a festive favourite that helps combat the heat.
Thandai’s ingredients typically include almonds, cashews, melon seeds, poppy seeds, fennel, cardamom, saffron, and rose water. The drink has a rich and creamy texture with a mildly spiced, floral flavour. It is usually served chilled, making it an ideal refreshment after the excitement of Holi celebrations. Some people enjoy adding bhang for a traditional touch, but the non-intoxicating version remains a popular choice.
Thandai Recipe
Thandai is a classic Indian drink prepared with milk, nuts, and various aromatic spices, especially during Holi. This cooling and flavourful beverage is known for its rich taste and health benefits. It helps cool the body, aids digestion after indulging in festive foods, and also refreshes the senses.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 10 almonds
- 10 cashews
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 2 tbsp fennel seeds
- 10 black peppercorns
- 4 green cardamoms
- 2 tbsp melon seeds
- 3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp rose water
- A few saffron strands (optional)
- Chilled water or ice cubes (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Soak the ingredients: Soak the almonds, cashews, poppy seeds, fennel seeds, cardamoms, melon seeds, and black peppercorns in water for about 3–4 hours.
- Blend to make a paste: Drain the soaked ingredients and grind them into a smooth paste with a little milk.
- Prepare the Thandai: In a pan, heat the milk and add sugar, stirring well. Once warm, add the prepared paste and mix thoroughly.
- Cool and strain: Let the mixture cool. Once cooled, strain it using a fine sieve to remove any coarse spice particles. Then add rose water, saffron, and chilled water or ice cubes as per preference.
- Garnish and serve: Pour the chilled Thandai into glasses and garnish with chopped nuts and saffron strands.
Enjoy this delicious and aromatic Thandai with family and friends during Holi!
Thandai is a spiced Indian drink perfect for Holi. Made with nuts, seeds, and aromatic spices, it’s a cooling and flavourful beverage that enhances festive celebrations. Food & Drink Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
