Badam Milk Recipe | A Deliciously Creamy Almond Milk Drink
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Almond milk, or Badam Milk, is a beloved traditional Indian drink, especially during the warm summer months when people crave something cool and refreshing. This creamy and aromatic drink is made with almonds, cardamom, and saffron, offering a perfect balance of flavors. Street vendors often sell this treat, and it’s also a popular choice for serving to guests as a comforting, rich beverage. Whether you enjoy it chilled or warm, this homemade Badam Milk is a delightful drink that will transport you straight to the heart of India’s culinary culture.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Almonds | 1 cup (soaked) |
| Milk | 1 liter |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Cardamom (broken) | 2 pods |
| Saffron | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugars | 29g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 70mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Almonds: Start by soaking the almonds in water for a few hours or overnight. Once soaked, peel the almonds and chop them into small pieces. Grind these soaked almonds into a smooth paste using a blender or mixer grinder. Set this almond paste aside for later use.
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Boil the Milk: Pour the 1 liter of milk into a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Let the milk come to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
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Flavor the Milk: Once the milk is boiling, add the almond paste, broken cardamom pods, sugar, and saffron to the milk. Stir the mixture well, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
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Simmer: Allow the milk to cook on low to medium heat for about 15-20 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent it from overflowing or sticking. The milk should thicken slightly, and the flavors from the almonds, cardamom, and saffron will infuse into the milk, making it aromatic and rich.
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Adjust Sweetness and Consistency: Taste the Badam Milk and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more sugar. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can cook the milk a bit longer to reduce it.
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Serve: Once the milk has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. You can serve this drink either hot or chilled. For a chilled version, allow it to cool and then refrigerate it for a few hours. Serve in glasses, garnished with slivers of almonds or a few strands of saffron for an extra touch of elegance.
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Perfect Pairing: For a wholesome breakfast or snack, serve your Badam Milk alongside dishes like Aloo Poha or a warm paratha. The combination of flavors is guaranteed to be a hit!
Tips for the Best Badam Milk:
- Soaking Almonds: Soaking almonds softens them, making them easier to peel and grind into a smooth paste. This also helps release their natural oils, making the milk richer.
- Sweetener Options: You can experiment with different sweeteners like jaggery or honey for a more traditional flavor.
- Vegan Version: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cow’s milk with almond milk or coconut milk.
- Flavor Variations: You can add a pinch of nutmeg or a few strands of rose petals to enhance the flavor profile.
This Badam Milk recipe is an indulgent treat for any occasion, providing you with a creamy, flavorful, and nourishing drink. It’s an excellent way to showcase Indian flavors while delighting your guests with something unique and refreshing. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or serving it at a special gathering, this traditional drink will surely be appreciated by all!
