Thandai

Thandai is a North Indian milk-based beverage that incorporates nuts, seeds, and various spices. The preparation starts with a thick paste that is usually made with a different combination of nuts and spices such as cashews, almonds, cardamom, peppercorns, poppy seeds, and fennel seeds.

The milk is combined with sugar and saffron, sometimes with the addition of rose water, before it is mixed with the nut and spice paste. The combination is then left to set before it is strained. Thandai should always be served well-chilled and typically comes garnished with slivered nuts and saffron threads.

It is traditionally prepared and enjoyed during Holi and Maha Shivratri festivals. There are several variations of thanadai, such as bhang thandai laced with cannabis, mango thandai, and rose thandai.