If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and nutrient-packed drinks, then Badam Milk is a beverage you must try. This traditional Indian drink is made with almonds, milk, and a touch of aromatic spices, making it a perfect treat for any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a comforting hot drink or a refreshing chilled beverage, this recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful drink!
What is Badam Milk?
Badam Milk is a popular Indian drink made with almonds, milk, and a blend of spices like cardamom and saffron. The almonds are ground into a smooth paste, which is then cooked with milk to create a creamy, nutty, and aromatic beverage. It’s often sweetened with sugar and garnished with chopped almonds and saffron for an extra touch of elegance. This drink is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.
Ingredients for Badam Milk (Serves 2)
Here’s what you’ll need:
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30 almonds (approximately half a cup)
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2 cups of milk (half a liter)
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2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
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2 cardamom pods
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A pinch of saffron (optional, for color and flavor)
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Chopped almonds and saffron for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Almonds
To begin, we need to remove the skins from the almonds. Here’s how:
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Pour boiling hot water over the almonds and let them soak for about 15 minutes.
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After soaking, the skins will loosen, making them easy to peel. Simply press each almond gently, and the skin will come off effortlessly.
Tip: If you’re not in a hurry, you can soak the almonds in normal water for at least 5 hours instead of using hot water.
2. Making the Almond Paste
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Once the almonds are peeled, transfer them to a mixer grinder.
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Add 1/4 cup of milk (taken from the measured half-liter) and 2 cardamom pods.
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Blend everything into a smooth paste. Set this aside for now.
3. Boiling the Milk
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Pour the remaining milk into a saucepan and place it on medium to high heat.
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Stir the milk continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
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Once the milk starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and add 2 tablespoons of sugar. Adjust the sweetness to your preference—you can add up to 3 tablespoons if you like it sweeter.
4. Adding Flavor and Almond Paste
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Add a pinch of saffron to the milk. This step is optional, but it enhances the drink with a beautiful color, aroma, and flavor.
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Next, add the almond paste we prepared earlier.
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Stir continuously on low heat for about 3 minutes. This allows the saffron to infuse its color and the almonds to cook well.
Pro Tip: If the milk starts to rise, shift it to the smallest burner on the lowest flame and keep stirring to prevent overflow.
5. Serving the Badam Milk
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After 3 minutes, turn off the heat. Pour the Badam Milk into serving glasses and garnish with chopped almonds and a few strands of saffron.
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As mentioned earlier, this drink is incredibly versatile. You can serve it hot for a comforting treat or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing beverage.
Tips for the Perfect Badam Milk
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh almonds and milk enhance the flavor and texture of the drink.
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Adjust Sweetness: Tailor the amount of sugar to suit your taste.
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Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a unique twist.
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Let It Rest: Allowing the drink to sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together.
Why You’ll Love This Drink
Badam Milk is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, while milk provides calcium and other essential nutrients. The addition of cardamom and saffron adds a touch of warmth and elegance, making this drink a perfect choice for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a drink that’s both comforting and refreshing, Badam Milk is a must-try. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor and nutrients. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Until next time, keep experimenting with flavors and enjoying the magic of homemade drinks. Cheers! 🎵
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