Thandai Cocktail Recipe

Thandai Cocktail is a fusion of the traditional Indian drink Thandai and a Western-style cocktail. Thandai is a popular drink in India, especially during the festival of Holi and Maha Shivaratri. It is made with a mix of nuts, spices, and milk. This cocktail version adds a twist to the classic Thandai by incorporating alcohol, making it a perfect drink for those who love experimenting with flavors and cultures.

The Thandai Cocktail has a rich, creamy texture with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The nutty taste from almonds and cashews blends well with the warmth of spices like cardamom, fennel, and black pepper. The addition of alcohol adds a subtle kick, making it a delightful and refreshing drink.

• Thandai is traditionally consumed during the Indian festival of Holi, which marks the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil.
• The word 'Thandai' means 'cooling' in Hindi, as the drink is known for its cooling properties and ability to refresh the body.
• Thandai is often associated with the worship of Lord Shiva, and it is believed that consuming Thandai can help in attaining spiritual enlightenment.

1. Soak almonds and cashews in water for 2-3 hours. Drain and peel the almonds.
2. In a blender, add soaked almonds, cashews, cardamom, fennel seeds, and black peppercorns. Blend to make a smooth paste.
3. In a saucepan, heat milk and sugar. Once the sugar dissolves, add the nut and spice paste. Cook for 5-7 minutes on low heat, stirring continuously.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool. Strain the mixture to remove any lumps.
5. In a cocktail shaker, add the strained Thandai mixture, rosewater, gin, and ice cubes. Shake well.
6. Pour the cocktail into a glass and garnish with rose petals.

• To enhance the flavor, roast the fennel seeds and cardamom before blending.
• You can also add saffron strands to the milk for a richer taste and color.
• For a vegan version, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk.

Foods

• Indian Sweets: The sweet, nutty flavor of the Thandai cocktail pairs wonderfully with Indian sweets such as Gulab Jamun, Kheer, or Jalebi.
• Spicy Appetizers: Complement the spiced notes of the cocktail with spicy Indian appetizers like Samosas, Aloo Tikki, or Pakoras for a refreshing contrast.
• Charcuterie: A simple charcuterie board with a variety of cheeses, cold cuts, and dried fruits that will highlight the cocktail's nutty and floral profile.

Drinks

• Chai Tea: For a non-alcoholic pairing, chai tea's spicy warmth can complement the cocktail's complex flavors.

Desserts

• Rose-flavored desserts: Rose-infused desserts like Turkish Delight or Rose Petal Ice Cream make an aromatic and visually pleasing companion to the Thandai Cocktail.

• You can replace gin with vodka or rum for a different flavor profile.
• For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the alcohol.
• If you don't have rosewater, you can use a few drops of rose essence or skip it altogether.

Thandai Cocktail with Bourbon

Substitute gin with bourbon for a deeper, oaky twist. This Southern gentleman will bring vanilla and caramel notes to the party.

Ingredients: Replace gin with 60ml bourbon. Recipe: Follow the original recipe, but use bourbon instead of gin. Taste: Expect a richer, warmer cocktail with a hint of American charisma.

Vegan Thandai Cocktail

Swap milk for almond or cashew milk, and ensure all your ingredients are animal product-free to cater to your vegan pals.

Ingredients: Replace milk with 250ml almond or cashew milk. Recipe: Same as original, but with your chosen vegan milk. Taste: Slightly lighter, but still full of nutty flavors and spices.

Thandai Espresso Martini Cocktail

Add a shot of espresso to give it a caffeinated kick that’ll make you want to shake more than just cocktails.

Ingredients: Add a 30ml shot of espresso. Recipe: Combine all ingredients including espresso in the shaker. Taste: The coffee will add a robust depth and is perfect for those who want a cocktail that also wakes up the senses.