Refreshing Holi Drinks: Thandai with a Healthy Twist

Holi, the festival of colors, brings with it an explosion of joy, laughter, and vibrant celebrations. While the colors take center stage, Thandai, the traditional spiced drink, is one of the most cherished beverages of this festive season. Made from milk, nuts, and aromatic spices, Thandai is both cooling and refreshing, perfect for the warm spring weather. But why not give this classic drink a healthy twist this year? By making a few simple swaps, you can enjoy Thandai that’s both nourishing and delicious. Here’s how!

Thandai is a traditional Indian drink typically made with milk, nuts (like almonds and pistachios), spices (such as cardamom, saffron, and fennel), and sugar. It’s commonly served chilled and is perfect for cooling off during the heat of the day. In some regions, Thandai is infused with bhang (cannabis), but in general, it’s a festive, flavorful drink that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

However, traditional Thandai recipes can sometimes be rich in sugar and fat. With a few easy tweaks, you can give this iconic beverage a healthier spin while maintaining its signature flavors.

Healthy Twists for Thandai

Here are some simple swaps to make your Thandai healthier without losing any of its charm:

1. Switch to Plant-Based Milk

Instead of full-fat cow’s milk, use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. These plant-based milks are lighter in calories and free from cholesterol, making them a great choice for those looking for a dairy-free or lower-calorie option. Almond milk, in particular, complements the nuts and spices in Thandai beautifully

2. Replace Refined Sugar with Natural Sweeteners

Traditional Thandai often relies on refined sugar, but you can reduce the sweetness without sacrificing taste by using Lakanto Monk Fruit Sweetener.

3. Boost the Nutritional Value with Superfoods

Thandai is already packed with nutritious ingredients like almonds and pistachios, but you can take it a step further by adding chia seeds or flaxseeds for an omega-3 boost. These superfoods are high in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, making your Thandai even more beneficial for your health.

4. Incorporate Healthy Spices

The spices in Thandai—cardamom, fennel, saffron, and pepper—are naturally packed with anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. To further boost the health benefits, you can add a pinch of turmeric, which is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects.

Also Read: Colorful Holi Desserts: Falooda & Custard-Based Sweets

Healthy Thandai Recipe

Here’s how you can prepare a healthier version of Thandai that’s both delicious and nutritious:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon soaked almonds
• 1 tablespoon soaked pistachios
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron strands
• 1 tablespoon Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener (or your preferred sweetener)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
• A pinch of turmeric powder (optional)
• Ice cubes (for a chilled drink)

Method:

• Soak the Nuts: Soak the almonds and pistachios overnight to soften them.
• Prepare the Drink: In a blender, add the soaked nuts, fennel seeds, cardamom powder, saffron, and sweetener of your choice. Add the almond milk and blend until smooth.
• Optional Additions: If you like, you can also add chia seeds and a pinch of turmeric for extra health benefits.
• Chill and Serve: Add ice cubes to the mixture and blend again to chill. Alternatively, refrigerate for a few hours.
• Garnish and Enjoy: Serve chilled, garnished with slivers of almonds or saffron strands.

Why Choose a Healthier Thandai?

Opting for a healthier version of Thandai comes with several benefits:

• Low in Calories: Plant-based milk and natural sweeteners help reduce the calorie content without compromising on flavor.
• Nutrient-Rich: The nuts, seeds, and spices in Thandai provide healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.
• Gut-Friendly: Ingredients like chia seeds and flaxseeds support digestion and improve gut health.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Spices like turmeric, cardamom, and saffron help reduce inflammation and boost immunity.

This Holi, enjoy a traditional drink with a modern, health-conscious twist! By making simple swaps like using plant-based milk, natural sweeteners, and adding superfoods, you can create a refreshing, guilt-free version of Thandai that still captures all the festive flavors. Cheers to a healthier, vibrant Holi filled with color, joy, and deliciously nourishing drinks!