Badam Thandai is a traditional Indian beverage made from almonds, milk, and a blend of aromatic spices. It is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavors such as saffron, cardamom, and rose water. Badam Thandai is typically served chilled and is a popular drink during festivals and celebrations, known for its refreshing and indulgent taste.
Here’s a detailed recipe for making Badam Thandai:
Badam Thandai Recipe
Ingredients:
- Almonds (बादाम): 1 cup, blanched and peeled
- Milk (दूध): 4 cups
- Sugar (चीनी): 1/2 cup (adjust to taste)
- Saffron Strands (केसर): A pinch (optional)
- Cardamom Pods (इलायची): 4-5, seeds removed and crushed
- Fennel Seeds (सौंफ़): 1 tablespoon
- Black Peppercorns (काली मिर्च): 1/2 teaspoon
- Rose Water (गुलाब जल): 1-2 teaspoons (optional)
- Edible Silver Leaf (चांदी का वर्क): For garnish (optional)
- Chopped Almonds and Pistachios: For garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Almonds:
- Soak the almonds in warm water overnight or for at least 6-8 hours.
- After soaking, peel off the skin from the almonds.
- Make Almond Paste:
- In a blender, add the blanched and peeled almonds along with a little milk (about 1/2 cup).
- Blend until you get a smooth paste. Add more milk if needed to facilitate blending.
- Prepare Thandai Mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix together the almond paste, remaining milk, sugar, saffron strands (if using), crushed cardamom seeds, fennel seeds, and black peppercorns.
- Optionally, add rose water for an additional floral aroma.
- Strain the Mixture:
- Strain the Thandai mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any coarse bits or residues. Press the mixture with a spoon or spatula to extract all the flavors.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the strained Thandai mixture for at least 1-2 hours to chill.
- Before serving, stir the Thandai mixture well.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Pour the chilled Badam Thandai into serving glasses.
- Garnish with chopped almonds, pistachios, and a small piece of edible silver leaf, if using.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the Badam Thandai chilled and enjoy its rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors.
Badam Thandai is best enjoyed during festivals like Holi, Maha Shivaratri, or as a refreshing drink on hot summer days. Adjust the sweetness and spice levels according to your taste preferences.
