Here’s a list that will instantly make you crave your favorite winter drinks, if you haven’t already.
1. Kahwa/Kashmir tea
Hallelujah for Kahwa! A hearty winter drink made with Kashmiri green tea leaves boiled in water with whole spices, crunchy nuts, dry fruits and saffron, Kahwa is a blend of spice and nutrition. The tangy and spicy flavors of this Kashmiri specialty will not only warm your insides and keep you cozy in winter, but are also packed with nutritional benefits and boost your immunity.
2. Masala tea
The ‘mighty’ masala chai is well known to all Indians! It is without a doubt the designated winter drink. Nothing compares to warm, flavorful and aromatic kulhar-wali masala chai on cold winter days at the Dhaba. A cold winter’s day will be easier to manage if you have the elixir of life. The homemade masala chai variations are incredible though! Plus, it’s chai!
3. Nun/Noon Chai
Noon Chai is another drink that is only served with Kashmiri food. The pink drink, also known as gulabi chai, is well known for keeping the body warm. It is made with sea salt, milk and walnuts and has a velvety texture and a nutty flavor that will delight your taste buds. The tea leaves used in Noon chai, a specialty of Kashmir, are grown in the tea plantations of Kashmir!
4. Milk chocolate
A list of winter drinks is not complete without hot chocolate. Hot chocolate is a decadent combination made with chocolate, cocoa, cinnamon and milk that is a chocolate lover’s dream. It tastes best when it’s quite hot. It tastes great with a dollop of whipped cream or some marshmallows. In winter, no one should and cannot refuse hot chocolate. It’s illegal!
5. Badam Milk
Badam milk, which has been flavored with almonds, is a favorite household drink in India and a soothing winter drink. To make it taste better, it is often spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon. If you don’t like spices, the traditional Badam milk that has been sweetened with sugar will keep you warm.
6. Kanji
Winter specialties such as kanji are best enjoyed at room temperature. If you’re wondering why it’s cold and yet a winter drink, it’s because Kala Gajar is a vegetable that only grows in winter. The drink is cooked long before serving and is given time to fully develop its flavors. When it is at its best ripeness, people eat it.
7. Hot mushroom tea
Although not often mentioned, mushroom tea is a popular winter drink. You will be amazed to see your energy at another level if you start your day with it. It has such a buttery texture and is refreshing and delicious. In this strange winter drink, you can taste mushroom stew and lots of pepper!
8. Soup
Shorba is a Mughal meal, not usually a soup or stew to be eaten. Hyderabadis and North Indians create their own variations. It is made by cooking beef in water while adding aromatic herbs and spices to add extra heat. This Middle Eastern specialty makes the ideal introduction to your winter dinners.
9. Rasam
It’s hard not to give in to this delicious South Indian soup. The hot and spicy rasam, which is loaded with tomatoes and tamarind, is incredibly soothing. Rasam is a dish you shouldn’t miss if you love South Indian cuisine. In winter, a warm bowl of rasam is all you need to feel cozy.
10. Warm skimmed milk with turmeric and honey
When combined with milk, turmeric and honey are a golden duo that is incredibly effective. It is the ideal drink for winter due to the health benefits of Haldi, it fights exhaustion and the warmth and comfort of honey. Drink a glass of wine before bed for the most comfortable sleep!
11. Kadha
Kadha, which is recognized as the precursor to masala chai, was consumed for its therapeutic and nutritional benefits. If you ask your grandmother how to keep warm, she will undoubtedly make you a glass of heavenly kadha. Some people might not find kadha particularly tasty at first, but once you swallow it, it’s great for warding off the winter chill!
12. Kesaria Doodh
The rich Indian spice Kesar, when combined with milk and nuts, is absolutely exquisite. The fragrant drink is the ideal way to end a long winter day. It is not simply a fancy drink; it is also nutritious as saffron has antioxidants that help with nutrition. How can you say no to something that tastes good and has health benefits?
It’s time to pick your favorite flavor from this list if you haven’t already thrown away your favorite winter drink. What is your favorite winter drink?
First published on: 30 November 2022, 09:12 IST