Traditional Holi Drinks: Holi is more than colorful celebrations and water games as people celebrate this event also through delicious food choices. The main attraction during Holi celebrations is the diverse menu of delicious drinks. Learn about traditional Holi drinks Thandai Kesar Milk and others which will refresh and entertain you during the celebration.
1. Thandai
Holi celebrations need Thandai that provides a rich spice blend with nuts in a hydrating drink.
Ingredients:
- 1 liter milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup almonds
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds (khus khus)
- 2 tbsp fennel seeds (saunf)
- 1 tbsp watermelon seeds
- 10-12 black peppercorns
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- A few saffron strands
- Rose petals for garnish
Method:
- Keep almonds fennel seeds poppy seeds watermelon seeds and peppercorns soaking in water for 4 to 5 hours.
- Blend into a smooth paste.
- Heat the milk then mix in the sugar paste and preparation. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add cardamom powder and saffron.
- Strain the mixture and chill.
- Serve chilled by topping it with roses and chopped nuts.
2. Kesar Milk (Saffron Milk)
This festive beverage delivers strong flavors and intense taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 liter milk
- 10-12 saffron strands
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp chopped almonds and pistachios
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
Method:
- Heat some milk then put saffron threads into the liquid.
- Cook the leftover milk by mixing sugar and cardamom powder.
- Cook the leftover milk by mixing sugar and cardamom powder.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with almonds and pistachios.
- Serve hot or chilled.
3. Kanji
This spicy fermentation drink has special role during Holi festivities.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 2 tbsp mustard seeds (rai)
- 1 tbsp red chili powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 carrots, cut into thin sticks
Method:
- Combine all ingredients including water with mustard seeds red chili powder salt and turmeric inside a big container.
- Put carrot sticks into the mixture and blend them thoroughly.
- Put the cover on the jar and place it in direct sunlight for three to four days while stirring every day.
- When the mixture becomes sour you need to drain it before serving it cold.
4. Badam Thandai
A richer version of Thandai with a focus on almonds.
Ingredients:
- 1 liter milk
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp fennel seeds
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- Saffron strands for garnish
Method:
- Cover raw almonds with water at night then peel and blend them into paste.
- Heat milk in a pot then mix in sugar and fennel seeds.
- Allow the almond paste to mix with the sauce before allowing it to cook at low heat for 10 minutes.’
- Add cardamom powder.
- Serve chilled with saffron garnish.
Pro Tips:
Create drinks early and let them chill for a minimum of two hours to blend their tastes properly.
Keep the added sugar amount personal based on what you like.
Season with edible flowers nuts and saffron sprinkles for a stylish impact
Read More:
10 Easy Japanese Food Recipes: Authentic Flavors Made Simple
Celebrate Holi with these traditional and flavorful drinks. They not only enhance the festive vibe but also keep everyone refreshed and energized. Try these recipes and add a delicious splash of tradition to your Holi party!
