Exquisite Indian Thandai Bliss
Indulge in the exquisite taste of Indian Thandai Bliss, an invigorating almond-based beverage that combines a medley of seeds, spices, and floral hints. This refreshing drink is perfect for festive occasions or when you're looking to delight your senses with an exotic flair. The recipe requires minimal effort but a few hours of patience, allowing flavors to meld together and create an unforgettable refreshment.
8
Servings
68
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
water
1.5 liters
sugar
1 cup (or to taste)
almonds
1 tablespoon
sunflower seeds
1 tablespoon (raw, hulled)
poppy seed
0.5 tablespoon
anise seed
0.5 tablespoon
ground cardamom
0.5 teaspoon
rose water or orange flower water
1 teaspoon (optional)
peppercorn
1 teaspoon
rose petal
0.25 cup (organic, optional)
Instructions
1
In a bowl, dissolve the sugar in 0.5 liters of water and set it aside.
2
In a separate bowl, soak the almonds, sunflower seeds, poppy seeds, anise seeds, ground cardamom, peppercorns, and optional rose water or orange flower water in 2 cups of water. Let both mixtures stand for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
3
After soaking, blend the nuts, seeds, and spices into a smooth, fine paste using a blender or processor. Do not blend the sugar-water mixture.
4
Line a large strainer with a double layer of cheesecloth or a coffee filter and place it over a large container or pitcher.
5
Pour the paste into the lined strainer. Gently press the mixture with the back of a spoon to extract the concentrated liquid, gathering it in the container below.
6
Gradually add the remaining water to the strainer to help extract more of the flavors from the paste, repeating the pressing process several times for maximum flavor.
7
Stir the extracted liquid thoroughly, incorporating the sugar-water solution. Chill the drink in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving for optimal taste.
8
Stir the thandai before pouring into glasses. Optionally garnish each serving with organic rose petals for an aromatic presentation.
9
Note: Save the remaining nut paste as it can be used to enhance korma-type curries with rich flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
1g
Fat
15g
Carbs
0.6g
Protein
0.25g
Fiber
12g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Exquisite Indian Thandai Bliss?
It is an invigorating almond-based beverage featuring a medley of seeds, spices, and floral notes, traditionally served during Indian festivals.
How many calories are in a serving of this Thandai?
Each serving contains approximately 68 calories.
What are the primary ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients include water, sugar, almonds, sunflower seeds, poppy seeds, anise seeds, ground cardamom, peppercorns, and rose water.
How long do the ingredients need to soak?
The nuts, seeds, and spices should be soaked for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop properly.
Is this beverage served hot or cold?
Thandai is a refreshing cold drink and should be chilled for at least 2 hours before serving.
How many servings does this recipe produce?
This recipe is designed to make 8 servings.
What can I do with the leftover nut paste?
The remaining nut paste can be saved and used to add rich flavor and texture to korma-type curries.
Can I substitute rose water with anything else?
Yes, you can use orange flower water as an alternative to rose water for a different floral hint.
Is there any protein in this drink?
Yes, each serving provides about 0.6g of protein.
Does this recipe require any special equipment?
You will need a blender or food processor to create the paste, and a strainer lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
How much sugar is in one serving?
Each serving contains 12g of sugar.
Are the sunflower seeds used in this recipe raw or roasted?
The recipe calls for raw, hulled sunflower seeds.
What provides the spicy kick in Thandai?
The peppercorns and ground cardamom provide the subtle spiced heat and aromatic depth.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses water and nuts rather than dairy milk.
How much total water is needed?
A total of 1.5 liters of water is used throughout the process.
Can I use organic rose petals?
Yes, organic rose petals are recommended as an optional garnish for an aromatic presentation.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is approximately 1g of fat per serving.
How do I extract the flavor from the nut paste?
Press the paste through a lined strainer with the back of a spoon and gradually add water to wash through the concentrated flavors.
Can I adjust the sugar level?
Yes, you can adjust the 1 cup of sugar to taste depending on your sweetness preference.
Is Thandai difficult to make?
No, it requires minimal effort, though it does require several hours of patience for soaking and chilling.
What kind of seeds are included?
The recipe uses sunflower seeds, poppy seeds, and anise seeds.
How much cardamom is required?
The recipe uses 0.5 teaspoon of ground cardamom.
Should I blend the sugar-water mixture with the nuts?
No, the sugar should be dissolved in water separately and stirred into the extracted liquid at the end.
What is the fiber content?
There is approximately 0.25g of fiber per serving.
Is there any sodium or cholesterol in this recipe?
Based on the nutritional data, sodium and cholesterol levels are negligible or null.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
There are 15g of carbohydrates per serving.
How do I ensure the drink is smooth?
By blending the ingredients into a fine paste and using a double layer of cheesecloth for straining.
What category of food does this fall into?
This is categorized under Beverages.
When is Thandai typically served?
It is perfect for festive occasions or as an exotic refreshment for guests.
Do I need to stir it before serving?
Yes, you should always stir the Thandai before pouring it into glasses to ensure the flavors are well distributed.