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Traditional Pakistani Thandai garnished with almonds and pistachios
Bushra Waheed

Traditional Thandai (Sardai)

Traditional Thandai is a creamy and refreshing Pakistani summer drink made with soaked almonds, seeds, aromatic spices and chilled milk. This cherished family recipe is prepared the old-fashioned way using a mortar and pestle.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Soaking Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Pakistani
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 20 almonds
  • 2 tbsp poppy seeds
  • 2 tbsp melon seeds char magaz
  • 1 tsp fennel seeds
  • 8 –10 black peppercorns
  • Seeds from 4 green cardamom pods
  • 4 cups chilled full-fat milk
  • 3 –4 tbsp sugar or to taste
  • 1 tsp rose water
  • Ice cubes as required
For Garnishing
  • Sliced almonds
  • Chopped pistachios
  • A few saffron strands optional

Method
 

  1. Place the almonds, poppy seeds, melon seeds and fennel seeds in a bowl. Cover with water and soak for 4–6 hours or overnight.
  2. Drain the soaked ingredients and peel the almonds.
  3. Transfer the soaked ingredients to a mortar. Add the black peppercorns and cardamom seeds.
  4. Grind everything with a pestle, adding a few drops of water when needed, until a fine and creamy paste forms.
  5. Transfer the paste to a large jug and mix it with a small amount of chilled milk.
  6. Gradually add the remaining milk, stirring continuously.
  7. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve or muslin cloth for a smoother consistency.
  8. Add sugar and rose water. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
  9. Refrigerate for at least one hour.
  10. Stir well and pour over ice cubes. Garnish lightly with almonds, pistachios and saffron before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust the sugar according to your taste.
  • Add water sparingly while grinding the soaked ingredients.
  • Straining is optional if you prefer a slightly textured drink.
  • Keep the prepared Thandai refrigerated and consume it within two days.
  • For a naturally sweetened version, replace the sugar with honey.