When it comes to festival like holi or Mahashivratri, thandai is a drink we always look forward to, but have you ever thought about making a sugar-free version of this beloved drink ? In the thadai we use dates as a natural sweetener, making it not only delicious but also healthier alternative to store-bought version loaded with sugar.
Let’s prepare this wholesome, refreshing thandai and enjoy it with our loved once during the celebrations!
For the thandai paste :
- Almonds – 2 tbsp
- Cashews – 1 tbsp
- Pistachios – 1 tbsp
- Melon seeds (Magaj) – 1 tbsp
- Poppy seeds (Khas Khas) – 1 tbsp
- Fennel seeds (Saunf) – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – 1tsp
- Green Cardamom – 5 pods
- Organic rose petals – 1tsp
- Saffron – a pinch
- Water – for soaking
For Thandai drink :
- Soaked dates (seeds removed) – 9
- Milk (alternates for vegans any plant based milk like almond / coconut / cashew milk)- 1 cup
- Firstly, take a bowl, add almonds, cashews, pistachios, melon seeds, poppy seeds, fennel seeds, black pepper, cardamom, organic rose petals, and saffron. Pour 1 cup of water over them and let them soak a least 9 hours or overnight.
- Soak the seedless dates in water for couple of hours to soften them, as they will act as natural sweetener in this recipe.
- Once the soaking is done, drain the water from nuts & seeds mixture. Now we will add this along with soaked dates to blender. Blend until you get a smooth paste. If needed add water to achieve silky consistency.
- Now the thadai paste is ready you can store this paste in a refrigerator for up to 2 days, which makes it easy to prepare thandai in advance.
- To make the delicious sugar free thandai, take a few tablespoons of the prepared thandai paste in a blender. Add 2 cups of chilled milk (or plant based milk) and blend until everything is well combined.
- Finally, pour this refreshing thandai into serving glasses. For a festive touch, garnish with a few dried rose petals, chopped pistachios, and a pinch of saffron. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Enjoy this sugar-free, delicious thandai with your family and friends as you celebrate Holi or any special occasion! This sugar-free thandai is perfect for those who want to enjoy the traditional flavors of thandai without the added sugar. Make this recipe a part of your festive celebrations and share it with your loved ones for a healthy yet delicious treat!
Tips –
- Make sure to soak the nuts and seeds for at least 7 – 9 hours for the best flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, adjust the quantity of milk or thandai paste.
- You can make the thandai paste ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick and easy preparation.
- For a vegan option, substitute regular milk with almond milk, coconut milk or any plant – based milk of your choice.
