Thandai

A Refreshing Delight for Any Occasion

Thandai is a traditional Indian beverage that brings a burst of refreshing flavors, ideal for hot summer days or festive celebrations.

This creamy, aromatic drink is a perfect blend of nuts, spices, and milk, making it not only delicious but also nourishing. Served chilled, it’s an irresistible treat to sip on during family gatherings or festive occasions, like Holi, when vibrant colors and joyous moments fill the air.

Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely impress your guests and elevate your festivities!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (includes soaking time)
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 200
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 100mg

Why I Love This Thandai

Thandai holds a special place in my heart because it captures the essence of celebratory moments in my childhood.

The delightful aroma of fennel seeds mixed with almond and cashew paste always takes me back to family gatherings where laughter and joy filled the room.

I love how easy it is to whip up this drink, and it’s the perfect conversation starter when entertaining guests.

With its rich and creamy texture, it offers a satisfying escape from the summer heat. Plus, it’s fun to garnish it with saffron strands, making it visually stunning as well!

Ingredients

2 cups milk, 1/4 cup almonds, 1/4 cup cashews, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup khus khus (poppy seeds), 1 tablespoon fennel seeds, 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder, Saffron strands (optional), Ice cubes (optional)

How to Make Thandai

Tips & Variations

• To enhance the flavor, consider adding a touch of rosewater for a floral note.
• For a vegan option, simply replace the milk with almond or coconut milk.
• If you’re short on time, use almond butter instead of soaking and blending whole nuts.
• Serve Thandai in decorative glasses and add colorful straws for a festive touch!

Delicious Variations

• Almond Milkshake: A quick and nutty treat made by blending almond milk with ice cream and nuts.
• Kesar Pista Lassi: A refreshing yogurt drink flavored with saffron and pistachios that pairs wonderfully with Indian dishes.
• Mango Lassi: Perfect for summer, this creamy mango yogurt drink is a delightful twist on the classic lassi.
• Badam Halwa: A rich dessert made of ground almonds, ghee, sugar, and milk, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Serving Suggestions for Thandai

Thandai is best served chilled, making it an ideal refreshing beverage for warm afternoons or festive gatherings. Pair it with spicy snacks like samosas or savory chaat to balance the flavors.

It also complements sweets like Gulab Jamun beautifully, creating a delightful taste experience when enjoyed together.

Storage and Leftovers

Thandai can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have any leftovers, simply shake or stir well before serving, as separation may occur.

Although it’s best consumed fresh, it can be frozen for up to a month—just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion.

Helpful Questions

1. Can I make Thandai in advance?
   Yes! Thandai actually tastes better when made a few hours ahead, allowing the flavors to blend.

2. What can I substitute for nuts if I have a nut allergy?
   You can use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, though the flavor will differ slightly.

3. Is Thandai served warm or cold?
   Thandai is best served cold, making it a refreshing drink for warm weather.

4. Can I add alcohol to Thandai?
   Yes! Adding a splash of rum or vodka can create a unique adult version of this traditional drink.

5. What if I don’t have khus khus?
   If you don’t have khus khus, you can omit it or substitute with chia seeds, though the flavor will differ.

Enjoy making this delightful Thandai, and may it bring joy and refreshment to your gatherings!

Print