THANDAI - Holi celebration drink

The word Thandai means cool drink.  This is a very popular drink in the North of India (U.P. and Rajasthan). It is served during the colourful festival of Holi, at which time it is often laced with Bhang (powdered cannabis flowers and leaves). You will see that without this ‘unholy’ ingredient it is quite a healthy drink. Cheers.

( Serves 4)

In a bowl empty: 

    • 1 cup hot water
    • 1tbsp almonds
    • 1tbsp shelled pistachios
    • 1tbsp raisins
    • 1tbsp melon seeds
    • 1tbsp poppy seeds
    • 1tsp fennel seeds
    • ½tsp black peppercorns
    • the seeds from 2 cardamom pods
Allow to soak overnight
  1. Strain then grind the previously soaked ingredients in a blender till you have a smooth paste (add a little milk if needed)
  2. Now blend in 3 cups cold milk, 1tsp rose water and ¼ cup sugar
  3. Strain the blended milk mixture into a jug and stir in ¼ tsp saffron strands
  4. Serve in tall glasses
  5. Garnish with rose petals

 

 Thandai

 Image: www.yummytummyaarthi.com