Badam Milk Recipe

Badam milk, a comforting and nutritious beverage, is made by simmering milk with ground almonds, saffron, and aromatic spices. This classic Indian recipe involves boiling milk to enrich its flavor. It blends soaked almonds into a creamy paste. The mixture is enhanced with saffron strands, cardamom, and a touch of mace powder. Garnish with chopped almonds and pistachios for a delightful crunch. Perfect as a warm bedtime drink or a refreshing chilled treat, this badam milk recipe is both nourishing and irresistible.

What is badam milk

Badam = Almonds, so when almond paste is added in milk and cooked to thicken the milk a little bit, it is called badam milk. Safforn and Pistachios are added for flavour. It is also referred as “Badam Kesar Milk”, as it has saffron aka kesar added.

Almonds has heaps of benefits. Almonds are higher in fibre, vitamin E, riboflavin, calcium and niacin compared to any other nut.

There has been references that badam milk was used traditionally in India in old ages too. Drink a glass of badam milk in morning and you will have all the energy to last the day long. During summer you can have it chilled and in winters you can sip it hot.

I am less fan of badam milk. However, I remember my mom used to feed me a glass of almond milk when I was growing up. Thanks to the nutritional value it added for good grown of brain and body.

Ingredients

Milk

Milk serves as the base for badam milk, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. It’s a natural source of calcium and protein, making this drink both delicious and nutritious. When simmered, milk thickens and enhances the overall indulgence of the recipe.

Almonds (Badam)

Almonds are the hero of this recipe, adding a nutty flavor and creamy consistency. Rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants, almonds make this drink a powerhouse of nutrition. Blending soaked almonds creates a smooth paste that enriches the milk. Chopped almonds add a delightful crunch as a garnish.

Saffron (Kesar)

Saffron gives badam milk its signature golden hue and a luxurious aroma. Kesar/ Saffron is known for its antioxidants. It also has mood-enhancing properties. Saffron adds not just color but also a touch of elegance to this traditional drink.

Cardamom (Elaichi)

Cardamom adds a fragrant, sweet-spicy flavor that complements the almonds and milk perfectly. It also aids digestion, making it a flavorful and functional addition to this recipe.

Pistachios

Pistachios enhance the texture and provide a nutty contrast to the almonds. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, they elevate the recipe nutritionally while adding visual appeal to the garnishing.

Mace Powder

Mace powder contributes a subtle, warm flavor that blends harmoniously with cardamom and saffron. Its addition brings a slightly exotic depth to the drink.

Why These Ingredients Matter Together

Each ingredient in this badam milk recipe is chosen for its unique flavor, aroma, and nutritional benefits. Together, they create a wholesome, aromatic beverage that’s perfect for indulgence and health. This recipe is a must-try for anyone searching for a simple, satisfying way to enjoy the benefits of badam milk.

Method

The making of badam milk involves soaking almonds. I will recommend that you soak the almonds ahead of time. Once you have soaked almonds, it is super quick to make badam milk. Below is the step by step Badam milk recipe.

1. Boil the Milk:

Begin by pouring milk into a heavy-bottomed pan and placing it on medium-high heat. Let it come to a boil. Then, reduce the flame to low. Simmer for 15 minutes to thicken slightly.

2. Prepare Almond Paste:

Peel the soaked almonds. Set aside 5 for garnishing and grind the remaining almonds into a smooth paste using a little water or milk.

3. Make Spice Mix:

Blend pistachios, cardamom, mace powder, and a few saffron strands in a grinder to create a fine powder.

4. Mix Ingredients with Milk:

Stir the almond paste into the simmering milk along with the saffron strands. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes for the flavors to infuse.

5. Add Spice Powder:

Add 2 tablespoons of the prepared nut and spice powder to the milk and continue cooking for another 10 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Chop the reserved almonds for garnishing. Pour the badam milk into serving glasses, top with chopped almonds, and enjoy warm or chilled.

This step-by-step badam milk recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a rich, aromatic flavor that’s both healthy and indulgent.

Pro tips for best badam milk

1. Soak Almonds Overnight

Soaking almonds overnight makes them softer, easier to peel, and ensures a smoother paste when blended. This step also enhances their nutrient absorption and flavor.

2. Use Full-Fat Milk

For the creamiest badam milk, opt for full-fat milk. It adds a rich texture that elevates the drink’s indulgence.

3. Simmer Milk Slowly

Simmer the milk on low heat after the first boil. This helps thicken the milk and deepens its flavor. Stir frequently to prevent burning or sticking at the bottom.

4. Grind Almonds to a Fine Paste

Blend the soaked almonds into a smooth paste using a little milk or water. A fine paste ensures the milk has a velvety texture without graininess.

5. Add Saffron Early

Soak saffron strands in warm milk before adding them to the recipe. This enhances their vibrant color and flavor, infusing the milk beautifully.

6. Incorporate Spices for Depth

Grinding cardamom and mace with pistachios ensures the spices are evenly distributed, giving the badam milk a well-rounded, aromatic taste.

7. Sweeten to Your Taste

Add sugar, jaggery, or honey towards the end of cooking, adjusting to your preferred sweetness level. Ensure it’s fully dissolved for a consistent flavor.

8. Garnish Creatively

Use slivered almonds, pistachios, or even edible rose petals for an attractive garnish. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the drink visually appealing.

9. Serve Warm or Chilled

Badam milk tastes delightful both ways. Serve it warm for cozy evenings or chilled for a refreshing summer treat.

10. Make It Ahead

Almond milk stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

This badam milk

• Is nutritious
• Loved by all age range
• Enjoyed cold in summer and hot in winter
• Takes only few minutes to make
• Can be vegan. Use vegan milk for that

Alternatives

• You can use almond flour in stead of fresh almonds. However, the taste of fresh almonds is best.
• You can use soya milk, if looking for vegan version.

Serving suggestion for badam milk

Serve badam milk hot, during cold days. Serve badam milk cold/ chilled, during summer.

If you are almond lover, you may like to try almond halwa.

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