Traditional Indian Drinks You Can Make at Home

India is a land of diverse cultures, and this diversity is beautifully reflected in its traditional drinks. From refreshing coolers to spicy tonics, Indian beverages can elevate any meal and also offer numerous health benefits. Here are some traditional Indian drinks you can easily prepare at home.

Lassi

Lassi is a yogurt-based drink that is especially popular in Punjab. It can be sweet or salty, and it’s perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day.

Ingredients: 1 cup yogurt, 1 cup water, sugar or salt (to taste), and a pinch of cardamom powder.

Instructions: Blend the yogurt and water until smooth. Add sugar for a sweet lassi or salt for a savory version. Sprinkle with cardamom powder before serving, and enjoy chilled!

Masala Chai

Masala chai is more than just tea; it's a fragrant blend of spices and herbs that warms the soul. This spiced tea is ideal for starting your day or enjoying in the afternoon.

Ingredients: 2 cups water, 1 cup milk, 2 teaspoons tea leaves, 1-2 teaspoons sugar, and spices like ginger, cardamom, and cloves.

Instructions: Boil water with the spices. Add tea leaves and let it steep. Pour in the milk and sugar, and bring it to a boil. Strain and serve hot!

Thandai

Thandai is a refreshing milk-based drink traditionally consumed during the festival of Holi. With its mix of nuts and spices, it's a nutritious option.

Ingredients: 2 cups milk, 1/4 cup almonds, 1/4 cup cashews, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon cardamom, and sugar (to taste).

Instructions: Soak the nuts for a few hours, then blend them with the spices and sugar to form a paste. Mix the paste with chilled milk and serve garnished with additional nuts.

Nimbu Pani (Lemonade)

Simple yet refreshing, Nimbu Pani is a favorite in households all across India. It's the perfect thirst-quencher for hot summer days.

Ingredients: Juice of 2 lemons, 4 cups water, sugar (to taste), salt (optional), and mint leaves for garnish.

Instructions: Mix the lemon juice, water, sugar, and salt in a jug. Stir well and serve over ice with mint leaves for garnish.

Jaljeera

This zesty drink is made from cumin and is often served as an appetizer. It’s not only delicious but also great for digestion.

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons jaljeera powder, 4 cups water, salt, chaat masala (to taste), and fresh mint leaves.

Instructions: Mix jaljeera powder, salt, and chaat masala in water. Stir well and serve chilled, garnished with mint leaves.

Badam Milk

Badam milk is a nutritious drink packed with the goodness of almonds. It's perfect for a refreshing treat at an evening gathering.

Ingredients: 2 cups milk, 10 soaked almonds, sugar (to taste), and a pinch of saffron.

Instructions: Blend the soaked almonds with a small portion of milk to make a paste. Boil the remaining milk, add the paste and sugar, and stir well. Garnish with saffron and serve warm or chilled.

These traditional Indian drinks not only tantalize your taste buds but also serve various health benefits. Try making them at home and enjoy a refreshing burst of flavors!