How to Make Traditional Indian Milk-Based Beverages

Traditional Indian milk-based beverages are not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. These drinks are integral to Indian culture and are often enjoyed during festivals, celebrations, or simply to beat the heat. Here we explore some popular varieties and their preparation methods.

1. Chai (Indian Tea)

Chai is a staple beverage in many Indian households. It's a spicy, creamy drink made with milk, tea leaves, and various spices.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons loose black tea leaves
  • 1-2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1-2 cardamom pods (crushed)
  • 1-inch piece of ginger (grated)

Method:

  1. Boil water in a saucepan. Add the crushed cardamom and grated ginger.
  2. Once the water is boiling, add the tea leaves and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  3. Pour in the milk and sugar, then bring to a boil.
  4. Strain the tea into cups and serve hot.

2. Lassi

Lassi is a popular yogurt-based beverage, usually enjoyed during the summer months to cool down. It can be either sweet or savory.

Ingredients (Sweet Lassi):

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/2 cup water or milk
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • Pistachios or almonds for garnishing

Method:

  1. In a blender, combine yogurt, water (or milk), sugar, and cardamom powder.
  2. Blend until smooth and frothy.
  3. Pour into glasses and garnish with chopped pistachios or almonds.

3. Masala Milk

Masala milk is a nutritious drink infused with a mix of spices, making it perfect for all ages and a great source of energy.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
  • Saffron strands (optional)

Method:

  1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
  2. Add sugar, cardamom, and cinnamon, stirring well to combine.
  3. Allow it to simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts and saffron strands.

4. Thandai

Thandai is a refreshing beverage, especially popular during festivals like Holi. It’s rich in flavors and often made with a variety of nuts and spices.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup almonds (soaked and peeled)
  • 1/4 cup cashews
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • Saffron strands (for garnish)

Method:

  1. Blend almonds, cashews, sugar, poppy seeds, and cardamom with a little milk to make a smooth paste.
  2. Combine the paste with the rest of the milk in a saucepan. Heat it gently.
  3. Cool it in the refrigerator before serving.
  4. Pour into glasses, garnishing with saffron strands or crushed nuts.