Holi is here and one can forget the “Thandai” a rich and flavorful beverage that is sure to spice up your festivities. Holi is a vibrant and joyful celebration that is eagerly awaited by people all over the world. With its roots in Hindu mythology, this festival marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil.
Holi is traditionally celebrated by drenching friends and family with colored water and powder, singing and dancing to Bollywood tunes, and indulging in delicious food and drinks. One of the most popular drinks during this festival is Thandai, a rich and flavorful beverage that is sure to spice up your festivities.
Thandai is a refreshing drink that is made using a blend of milk, nuts, and spices. It is often served chilled and is perfect for the warm weather that usually accompanies Holi. The drink is also known for its medicinal properties and is believed to help cool the body, aid digestion, and improve immunity.
With Holi 2023 just around the corner, it’s time to explore some exciting Thandai trends that are sure to elevate your celebrations to the next level.
Thandai Trends 2023
One of the hottest trends this year is the incorporation of unique and exotic flavors. While traditional Thandai recipes call for ingredients like almonds, pistachios, saffron, and cardamom, modern versions of this drink are experimenting with a variety of other flavors. From rose petals and lavender to blueberries and mangoes, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating a unique recipe that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Another trend that is gaining popularity this year is the use of natural sweeteners. While sugar has traditionally been used to sweeten the drink, health-conscious individuals are now opting for natural sweeteners like honey, jaggery, and maple syrup. These sweeteners not only add a delicious taste to the beverage but are also much healthier than processed sugar.
For those who love a bit of a kick in their drinks, spicy Thandai is the perfect choice. Adding a pinch of chili powder or black pepper to give it a spicy twist that is sure to leave your taste buds tingling. This trend is perfect for those who love experimenting with flavors and are looking for something new and exciting this Holi.
Finally, vegan Thandai is another trend that is gaining popularity this year. With more and more people opting for plant-based diets – is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy this delicious drink without compromising on their dietary preferences. Made using ingredients like almond milk, coconut milk, and cashews, vegan Thandai is just as delicious and refreshing as the traditional version.
The popular traditional drink, is an essential part of the Holi celebration. It is a milk-based beverage made with a blend of almonds, fennel seeds, rose petals, cardamom, and other spices.
Holi 2023: Here are some of the best places to enjoy Thandai in India
Mathura and Vrindavan – These twin cities in Uttar Pradesh are the birthplace of Lord Krishna, and Holi is celebrated here with great fervor. The shops here offer a wide variety of flavors such as kesar, pista, and bhang. Bhang is a special addition to thandai, made with cannabis leaves, and is believed to have religious and medicinal properties.
Jaipur – The capital city of Rajasthan is famous for its colorful Holi celebrations and delicious thandai. You can find the best thandai in the narrow lanes of the old city, particularly in the Johri Bazaar and Chandpole areas.
Varanasi – The holy city of Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges is known for its rich culture and traditional celebrations during Holi. You can savor the authentic taste of the drink at the famous Blue Lassi shop, which has been serving delicious lassi and thandai for generations.
Delhi – The capital city of India offers a variety of thandai flavors, including bhang thandai. You can find the best thandai at the street food stalls in Chandni Chowk and Karol Bagh.
Pushkar – The small town of Pushkar in Rajasthan is famous for its Holi celebrations and colorful bazaars. You can enjoy the delicious the drink at the cafes and restaurants around the famous Pushkar Lake.
In conclusion, these are some of the best places to enjoy this favorite festive drink during Holi in India. However, be sure to consume thandai from a reputable vendor and in moderation, as some varieties may contain bhang, which can have psychoactive effects.
