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Thandai, a traditional Indian milk drink, is a must-have for Holi

Thandai, an Indian milk drink for Holi

Thandai is a traditional Indian drink, often served during Holi , the festival of colors. Served chilled, this milk, flavored with spices , dried fruit, and rosewater, offers a rather surprising yet very interesting aroma. This drink has a smooth texture and notes of cardamom, saffron, and almonds . Consumed for its refreshing properties, Thandai is generally associated with spring festivities in India. This version is naturally gluten-free and can be made lactose-free using plant-based milk. Rich in spices and nutrients, Thandai has numerous digestive and energy benefits. Served with gluten-free Malpuas , it perfectly complements the festive sweets of Holi. Discover this original and easy-to-make recipe and celebrate Holi with a touch of freshness and indulgence!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Rest time: 2 hours
Total time 2 hours 15 minutes
Cooking method:
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Special diet: naturally gluten-free
Ingredients
  • 500 ml of whole milk (or plant-based milk for a lactose-free version)
  • 10 soaked and peeled almonds
  • 5 cashew nuts
  • 5 pistachios​
  • 1 tablespoon of fennel seeds
  • 1 tsp of poppy seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1 pinch of saffron
  • 1 tbsp rose water (bought at Grand Frais or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar (or honey)
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (optional, for a spicy touch)
  • 2 tablespoons of lukewarm water
Preparation
  1. 1
    Prepare the aromatic paste
    • Soak the almonds, cashews and pistachios for 2 hours .
    • Drain, then blend with fennel seeds, poppy seeds, cardamom, pepper and 2 tablespoons of warm water until you get a smooth paste.
  2. 2
    Infuse the milk
    • Heat the milk over low heat and add the prepared dough.
    • Stir in the sugar or honey and simmer for 5 minutes , stirring occasionally.
    • Add the saffron and rosewater, then remove from the heat. (You can make rosewater at home by boiling red or pink rose petals from your garden for 30 minutes).
  3. 3
    Cooling and service
    • Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
    • Serve chilled, decorated with crushed pistachios and dried rose petals.
Keywords: Thandai recipe, gluten-free Indian drink, Holi drink, Indian specialty, homemade Thandai, Indian spiced milk, Holi drink, refreshing Indian drink
Read it online: https://glutenevasion.fr/recette/le-thandai-boisson-lactee-traditionnelle-indienne-incontournable-pour-holi/