How to Make the Perfect Thandai with Kota Fresh Milk?
Mithais and samosas are always a given at family gatherings, festivals, or when guests drop by unannounced. But that’s not all. Indian families are known for their diverse range of delicacies, including beverages. Yes, if you haven't guessed it yet, it's none other than Thandai.
Thandai is a traditional, cooling drink loved across northern India. Made during special occasions like Holi and Maha Shivratri, it holds a festive charm and a nostalgic place in many households. It’s more than just a beverage. It’s a sign of warmth, hospitality, and celebration.
So, what makes it everyone’s favourite? It’s a tasty blend of sweet and spicy, packed with dry fruits, nuts, and aromatic hints of rose. One sip, and you know it’s special.
Well, we could go on... but let’s jump straight into how you can make the best thandai recipe with fresh milk at home using Kota Fresh Milk.
Thandai Recipe with Kota Fresh Milk
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours soaking time)
Making Time: 10–15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the thandai masala paste:
2 tbsp almonds (soaked)
1 tbsp cashews
1 tbsp pistachios
1 tbsp poppy seeds (khus khus)
1 tbsp melon seeds (magaz)
1 tbsp fennel seeds (saunf)
1 tsp black peppercorns (kaali mirch)
½ tsp cardamom powder
½ tsp cinnamon powder
A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
2–3 dried rose petals or ½ tsp rose water
Other ingredients for the drink:
500 ml Kota Fresh milk
3–4 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes (optional)
How to Make Thandai with Easy Steps
Step 1: In a bowl, soak almonds, cashews, pistachios, poppy seeds, melon seeds, and fennel seeds in warm water for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Step 2: After soaking, peel the almonds. Drain the soaked ingredients and transfer them to a blender. Add black peppercorns (unsoaked), rose petals (or rose water), cardamom powder, cinnamon powder, and saffron. Grind into a smooth paste using a little water.
Step 3: In a pan, pour Kota Fresh Milk and let it heat on a low flame. Add sugar and stir well till it dissolves completely. Switch off the flame.
Step 4: Add the ground thandai paste to the warm milk. Stir and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the flavours to blend beautifully.
Step 5: Strain the mixture through a fine sieve or muslin cloth to remove any coarse particles. Refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours.
Step 6: Pour into glasses, add a few ice cubes if you like, and garnish with crushed pistachios or rose petals.
Tips to Make Thandai More Delicious
Want to make your thandai even more special? Here are a few simple ways to level it up:
Use Kota Fresh's full cream milk for the best flavour and creamy texture.
Always strain the thandai before serving. It gives a smooth, enjoyable sip without the grainy bits.
Prep the thandai masala in advance as it saves time when guests arrive. Store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Adjust the sweetness and spice to suit your family’s taste. Some prefer it lighter; others love a strong kick.
Chill before serving. Even 1 or 2 hours in the fridge helps the flavours come together beautifully.
Add a garnish. Crushed pistachios or a few rose petals make it look festive with zero effort.
Why Choose Kota Fresh Milk for Thandai?
When it comes to making thandai with fresh milk, quality matters. The milk you use defines the taste, texture, and richness of your drink. That’s why home kitchens across India trust Kota Fresh Milk.
It’s pure and fresh cow milk, just what your thandai needs. Whether you are making it for a festive gathering or just to unwind after a long day, Kota Fresh Milk brings out the best in your recipe.
If you are short on time or hosting a last-minute get-together, you can skip the prep and serve the flavour milk by Kota Fresh Dairy. It's a ready-to-enjoy option that your guests will love. Our flavoured milk is available in a variety of flavours, including kesar, badaam, rose, elaichi, strawberry, butterscotch, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
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Ans: Soaking softens the ingredients and helps grind them into a smooth paste. It’s essential for the right texture and taste. Try not to skip this step.
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Ans: You can store the prepared thandai masala paste in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. It’s perfect for making quick batches when needed.
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Ans: No, thandai and lassi are different. Thandai is a milk-based drink made with a blend of nuts, seeds, and spices, while lassi is a yoghurt-based drink that's either salty or sweet. Both are refreshing, but the flavours and ingredients are distinct.
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Ans: Yes, when made at home with quality ingredients like Kota Fresh milk, thandai can be a healthy drink. It's packed with nuts, seeds, and spices that support digestion, boost energy, and cool the body.
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Ans: Make a milder version by reducing the black pepper and spices. You can also skip saffron if needed. Kids love the nutty and slightly sweet flavour.
