Healthy Milk-Based Drinks from India

Quoted from page theindiastandoori.com, in 2019, India consumed the most cow’s milk in the world, drinking more than 77.7 million metric tons. The next largest consumption of milk is in the European Union, which is 33.4 million metric tons. So it is not surprising that there are many types of milk-based drinks from India.

Maybe if you like watching Indian movies or have been to an Indian restaurant, you’ve heard the name lassi. Yes, lassi is a traditional drink that has been around for a long time and is made from milk, sugar and curd. Apart from lassi, there are other milk-based drinks from India. Come on, find out what types of drinks are in this article!

1. Chaas

Chaas is made by stirring yogurt and cold water together in a saucepan, using a handheld device called a madhani or whipper. This drink is a type of milk-based drink from India.

To drink chaas can be flavored with a variety of spices. Chaas is very similar to lassi, but there are two main differences, namely chaas is thinner (with water) than lassi and unlike lassi, chaas does not have added sugar.

Chaas can be consumed unflavored, but usually a little salt is added. Many other herbs and spices can be added to salty chaas, either alone or in combination with each other. Spices that can be added include coarsely ground and roasted cumin seeds, curry leaves, asafoetida, grated ginger, finely chopped green chilies and mustard seeds.

2. Thandai

Thandai is a popular refreshing summer drink in India and is always served during the festivals of Holi as well as Mahashivratri. This drink is also known as Shardai. For the Holi festival, this type of milk-based drink from India is topped with bhang (marijuana leaves and flower heads).

This traditional Indian drink made using a quantity of nuts and spices mixed with milk is said to have a cooling effect on the body and hence the name «Thandai», which is Hindi for «cooling».

The use of pepper, almonds, fennel seeds, poppy seeds along with saffron, cardamom and rose water makes thandai a very refreshing and delicious drink.

3. Masala Milk

Masala Milk is a warm and healthy South Indian drink which is very popular in Chennai. This drink is found in popular chain restaurants throughout the city. Susu masala or masala paal is a unique drink made from milk and is popular among the people of Tamil Nadu.

Unlike the other milk-based drinks, milk masala is a warm recipe made from boiled milk that is boiled in a unique blend of spices, nuts and sugar. The combination produces a warm and refreshing drink.