Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to indulge in a rich, creamy, and aromatic drink that feels like a warm hug in a glass, then you must try this Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe. This traditional Indian delight blends the nutty goodness of almonds with the luxurious hints of saffron and cardamom, creating a velvety beverage that’s perfect for special occasions or simply treating yourself to something wonderful. Its gorgeous golden hue and soothing flavors make it a standout, whether served chilled or warm, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home with just a handful of simple ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe lies in its few but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element brings something unique: almonds provide creaminess and depth, saffron adds its signature floral aroma and vibrant color, and cardamom imparts a fragrant, warming spice that ties everything together.

• Almonds (18-20): Soak and peel them for a smooth, nutty base that makes this drink truly special.
• Milk (2 cups, divided): Full-fat milk works best to give a rich and creamy texture.
• Sugar (2 tablespoons): Adjust sweetness to taste; it balances the flavors beautifully.
• Saffron (1 pinch): The star ingredient that adds color, aroma, and a sense of luxury to the drink.
• Green Cardamom (3 pods or 1/4 teaspoon powder): Crushed seeds release a sweet, spicy fragrance that complements the almonds.
• Slivered Pistachios (for garnish): Adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• Saffron (for garnish): A few threads on top enhance the presentation and flavor.

How to Make Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Almonds

Begin by soaking the almonds in warm water for about 2 hours or overnight for best results. Once softened, peel off their skins carefully. This step ensures the milk will have a silky texture without any bitterness from the almond skins.

Step 2: Blend Almonds with Milk

Take half a cup of the milk and blend it with the peeled almonds until you get a smooth paste. Using milk instead of water adds to the creaminess and richness of the final drink.

Step 3: Infuse Saffron and Cardamom

Heat the remaining milk in a pan on medium heat. Add the crushed green cardamom seeds and a pinch of saffron, allowing their aromas and colors to infuse into the milk. Stir gently and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, which brings the flavors to life.

Step 4: Combine and Sweeten

Now mix the almond paste you created earlier into the warm, saffron-infused milk. Add sugar to taste, stirring until it dissolves completely. Let the mixture cook for another 3-4 minutes on low heat, allowing everything to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Strain and Cool

For an ultra-smooth Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any bits of almond or cardamom pods. You can enjoy it warm or allow it to cool and refrigerate if you prefer it chilled.

How to Serve Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe

Garnishes

Top your glass with a sprinkle of slivered pistachios and a few saffron threads to add a pop of color and texture. These garnishes not only beautify the drink but amplify the nutty and aromatic experience.

Side Dishes

Badam Milk pairs wonderfully with light snacks like crispy savories, mild spiced biscuits, or traditional Indian sweets such as kesar peda or kaju katli. The balance of sweet and savory makes it a fantastic complement for teatime or festive gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Badam Milk chilled in elegant glasses with a cinnamon stick stirrer or pour it into small copper tumblers for a more traditional Indian vibe. You can even drizzle some rose syrup on top for a unique twist, adding both color and subtle floral notes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days, so you can enjoy the creamy goodness without needing to prepare it fresh every time.

Freezing

Freezing this milk is not recommended because the texture may change and become grainy once thawed due to the dairy and nut content. For the best flavor and smoothness, stick to refrigeration.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the milk gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even temperature and to maintain its silky texture. Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate saffron flavor and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use almond powder instead of whole almonds?

While almond powder can be used in a pinch, whole soaked and peeled almonds blended fresh will provide a much creamier and more authentic texture that truly elevates the Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe experience.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the cow’s milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk. However, using dairy milk contributes to the traditional creaminess and flavor, so keep that in mind if going vegan.

How much saffron should I add for the best flavor?

A pinch of saffron is sufficient as it’s highly potent. Using just a few strands will infuse the milk with that beautiful aroma and golden color without overpowering the other flavors.

Can I make this drink ahead for a party?

Yes, Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a few hours before your event and chill it in the refrigerator. Give it a gentle stir before serving for the best taste.

What’s the best temperature to serve this drink?

This drink is versatile – it can be served warm as a soothing nightcap or chilled for a refreshing treat. Both ways are delicious and depend on your preference or the occasion.

Final Thoughts

Making this Badam Milk (Indian Saffron Almond Milk) Recipe at home is like bringing a piece of Indian tradition to your kitchen, enveloping your senses with warmth and sweetness. Whether you’re serving it for a festive celebration or simply savoring a cozy moment alone, this creamy almond drink is bound to become a treasured favorite. Don’t hesitate to try it yourself – a little luxury in a glass awaits you!

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