Strawberry Thandai is a delightful and refreshing twist on the traditional Indian drink, Thandai. It combines the goodness of fresh strawberries with aromatic spices and nuts to create a creamy and flavorful beverage. Here’s a recipe for Strawberry Thandai:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Ready in: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup almonds
- 2 tablespoons pistachios
- 2 tablespoons cashews
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon melon seeds (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust according to your taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands
- Rose petals for garnish (optional)
- Chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring the milk to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a separate pan, dry roast the almonds, pistachios, cashews, poppy seeds, and melon seeds (if using) until lightly golden and aromatic. Allow them to cool.
- In a blender or food processor, add the roasted nuts and seeds along with the chopped strawberries.
- Blend the ingredients until you have a smooth paste. You can add a little milk if needed to facilitate blending.
- Add the strawberry-nut paste to the simmering milk and stir well.
- Add sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron strands to the mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Continue to cook the mixture on low heat for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let the Strawberry Thandai cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the Thandai for a few hours to chill.
- When ready to serve, pour the Strawberry Thandai into glasses.
- Garnish with rose petals and chopped nuts, if desired.
Strawberry Thandai is now ready to be enjoyed! Sip and savor the creamy and fruity flavors of this delightful drink. It’s perfect for festivals, parties, or any time you want a refreshing and indulgent beverage. Serve it chilled and experience the taste of summer!
