The Best Bhang Thandai recipe

Recipe

The Best Bhang Thandai recipe, Traditional Drink for Holi

Description

Bhang Thandai is a traditional drink from Uttarakhand, India. It is especially popular during the festival of Holi. For a unique flavour and festive touch, this refreshing drink combines milk, nuts, spices such as cardamom and saffron, and is infused with bhang (cannabis) seeds. A must-try during the vibrant festivities of Holi, it is known for its cooling and soothing effects.

Bhang Thandai is a traditional Indian drink popular during the festival of Holi. It is a refreshing and cooling drink made with bhang, a type of cannabis plant, and various spices and nuts. To serve 4 people, here is a recipe for Bhang Thandai:

Ingredient

• 4 cups milk
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 1/4 cup cashews
• 1/4 cup pistachios
• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
• 2 tablespoons melon seeds (magaz)
• 1/4 cup bhang seeds (cannabis seeds), ground to a fine paste
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron strands (optional)
• Rose water (optional)
• Ice cubes (for serving)

Instruction

1.Prepare the nuts and seeds in advance:

1. Soak the almonds, cashew nuts, pistachios, poppy seeds and melon seeds in water for 4 to 6 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the soaked ingredients and blend into a smooth paste. If necessary, add a little water.

2. Preparation of bhang paste:

1. Grind the bhang seeds in a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder to a fine paste.

3. Mix the milk with the paste:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan until it is just below the boiling point. Remove from the heat. Allow to cool slightly.
2. Add the nut and seed paste, bhang paste and sugar to the milk.
3. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.

4. Add flavours, leave to chill and serve:

1. Add the cardamom powder, the saffron strands (if using) and the rose water (if using).
2. Continue to stir the mixture until all of the flavours are well blended.
3. Refrigerate the Thandai for at least 1-2 hours before serving.
4. Serve cold with ice cubes.

Equipment

• Blender
• Saucepan
• Mortar and pestle or spice grinder

Nutrition Information

Suitable For Diet

• Nuts
• Dairy (if using normal milk)
• Dietary requirements:
• Vegetarian

Tips and Tricks

• Depending on your sweetness preference, adjust the sugar.
• Add more or less of the bhang seeds according to your taste and tolerance level.
• Substitute almond milk or dairy-free milk for a vegan version.

Garnishing and Serving

• Garnish with chopped nuts or saffron strands for a touch of elegance.
• Serve in tall glasses with ice cubes for a refreshing experience.

How to store

• Thandai can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving.

Conclusion

Bhaang Thandai is a delicious and refreshing drink. It brings the festive spirit of Uttarakhand to your table. Enjoy this traditional drink during Holi or on any special occasion. Share your thoughts on its taste with us in the comments section!