What makes Thandai a perfect beverage for hot summer?

Welcome to the land of spices, colours and amidst all this heat - a called Thandai ! Being an Indian, you must have heard about this traditional drink. This sweet and creamy concoction is not only delicious but also has beneficial properties that can help beat the summer heat like no other. So, let's dive into what makes Thandai so unique for your taste buds and body.

What is thandai?

India has many satisfying beverages, but thandai holds a very special place.

Thandai is a traditional Indian drink made with a mixture of nuts, spices, milk, and sweeteners. It is a popular drink, especially during the festival of Holi, which is celebrated in India and other parts of the world by Hindus. Thandai is believed to have cooling properties, and it is often consumed during hot summer days to cool the body.

Thandai is a popular summer drink in India due to its refreshing and chilling properties and cultural significance. It is widely consumed in many parts of the country during the summer months, especially in North India, where it is considered a traditional drink.

How to make thandai easily at home?

It is made with a blend of spices, nuts, and milk, and has a unique flavour that is both creamy and spicy. While making thandai from scratch can be time-consuming and requires several ingredients, using readymade thandai powder can save you both time and effort, while still delivering an authentic and delicious flavour. You can also use kesari milk masala as they both have almost the same ingredients.

Here's a quick thandai recipe using thandai powder:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of readymade thandai powder
• 2 cups of chilled milk
• 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional)
• A few ice cubes
• Chopped almonds and pistachios for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, add 2 cups of chilled milk.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of readymade thandai powder to the blender.
3. If you like your drink to be sweeter, add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the blender.
4. Blend the mixture until it is smooth and frothy.
5. Add a few ice cubes to the blender and blend again until the ice is crushed and incorporated into the mixture.
6. Pour the thandai into glasses and garnish with chopped almonds and pistachios.
7. Serve the thandai chilled and enjoy the refreshing and delicious drink!

Healthy ingredients of Thandai:

There are many health benefits of thandai, the traditional Indian beverage. Made with a variety of spices and herbs, thandai is cooling and detoxifying. It can help to relieve stress, improve digestion, and boost immunity. Thandai is also a good source of antioxidants and vitamins.

Thandai gets its excellent nutrient profile from the ingredients used in making it. Following are the ingredients that make thandai a wholesome beverage:

Cashew nuts.

Cashew nuts are a rich source of vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health. Cashew nuts are packed with calcium and magnesium, which are essential for healthy bones and teeth. These nuts are rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and UV rays.

Almonds.

Almonds are a nutrient-dense food that provides a range of health benefits. They are loaded with essential nutrients, including fibre, protein, vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats. Studies have shown that consuming almonds can help reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and improve overall heart health. Almonds also contain fibre, which is the very helpful compound for maintaining digestive health and preventing constipation.

Pistachios.

Pistachios are a low-calorie and high-protein snack that can help with weight management. They can also help you feel full for longer periods of time, reducing the chances of overeating. Pistachios are a good source of fibre, which can help promote digestive health by preventing constipation. Pistachios' low glycemic index may facilitate decreased blood sugar levels.

Mace.

Mace helps in the secretion of digestive enzymes, which improves digestion and prevents various digestive problems such as bloating, constipation, and gas. Mace contains compounds such as eugenol, which have antibacterial properties and can help in preventing dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

Nutmeg:

The essential oil in Nutmeg is effective in alleviating fatigue and stress, making it useful in treating depression and anxiety. It is an adaptogen that can function as both a stimulant and sedative depending on the body's needs, and it can help reduce blood pressure during times of stress. Nutmeg is frequently used as an ingredient in Ayurvedic dental products such as toothpaste and gum paste. Additionally, the essential oil eugenol is beneficial in relieving toothaches.

Studies conducted in test tubes indicate that nutmeg has antibacterial properties that can combat toxic bacteria such as E. coli and Streptococcus mutans.

Saffron:

The world’s most expensive spice is rich in health benefits too. Kesari milk aka saffron milk is a beloved Indian beverage infused with immunity-boosting properties. Saffron has been shown to have antidepressant effects and may help improve mood in people with mild-to-moderate depression. Saffron has been shown to have a blood pressure-lowering effect in people with hypertension. Saffron has immune-boosting properties that may help protect the body against infections and diseases.

Summing it up:

Thandai is an incredibly delicious and satisfying traditional Indian beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries. It's the perfect drink to cool down in the summer heat and it's surprisingly easy to make at home. If you're looking for a unique way to beat the heat, give this ancient Indian classic a try! We guarantee that your taste buds will thank you!