Njalipoovan Banana Shake Recipe – Easy Horlicks & Cashew Delight

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Njalipoovan Banana Shake Recipe – Easy Horlicks & Cashew Delight

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, a good banana shake is the ultimate comfort drink. And this one? This one’s special. It’s a little slice of my childhood, packed with the flavour of njalipoovan bananas, a touch of nostalgia from Horlicks, and a creamy richness that just hits the spot. I first made this when I was craving something my Ammamma (grandmother) used to make, and honestly, it’s been a family favourite ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Njalipoovan Banana Shake isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to make! It comes together in under 5 minutes, requires just a handful of ingredients, and is perfect for a quick breakfast, a refreshing afternoon snack, or even a healthy dessert. Plus, the unique flavour of njalipoovan bananas takes it to a whole other level. Trust me, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful shake:

• 5 small njalipoovan bananas
• 1 cup cold milk (about 240ml)
• ?? cup ice cubes (adjust to preference)
• 1 tbsp cashew nuts
• 2 tbsp malted drink powder (Horlicks)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Njalipoovan Bananas: A South Indian Delight

These small, slightly tangy bananas are the star of the show. They have a unique flavour that’s different from the Cavendish bananas you usually find in supermarkets. If you can get your hands on them, definitely do! They really make this shake sing.

Horlicks: The Nostalgic Malted Milk Powder

Horlicks is a malted milk powder that’s super popular in India. It adds a lovely malty flavour and a bit of extra nutrition. It reminds me of childhood winters and cozy evenings!

Cashew Nuts: Adding Creaminess & Flavor

Cashew nuts lend a beautiful creaminess to the shake without overpowering the banana flavour. They also add a subtle sweetness and a boost of healthy fats.

Milk: Choosing the Right Type

I usually use full-fat milk for the richest flavour, but you can use any milk you prefer – almond milk, soy milk, or even oat milk work beautifully for a vegan option (more on that later!).

Ice Cubes: For the Perfect Consistency

The amount of ice cubes you use will determine how thick your shake is. Start with about ½ cup and add more until you reach your desired consistency.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get shaking! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, peel your njalipoovan bananas and pop them into the blender.
2. Next, add the cold milk, cashew nuts, Horlicks, and ice cubes.
3. Now, simply blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years:

• Chill your glass: Pop your serving glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring in the shake. It keeps it colder for longer!
• Don’t over-blend: Over-blending can make the shake a little frothy. Blend just until everything is combined.
• Taste and adjust: Feel free to add a touch of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter shake.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Njalipoovan Banana Shake

Swap the dairy milk for your favourite plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat work great!). You can also use a vegan malted milk powder if you can find one, or simply omit the Horlicks.

Gluten-Free Option

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check the label on your Horlicks to ensure it’s processed in a gluten-free facility if you have a severe allergy.

Adjusting Sweetness & Spice Level

Add a date or a teaspoon of honey for extra sweetness. A tiny pinch of cardamom powder can also add a lovely warming spice. My friend, Priya, loves adding a dash of nutmeg!

Festival Adaptations (e.g., Janmashtami)

During Janmashtami, you can add a tiny pinch of saffron strands to the shake for a festive touch. It adds a beautiful colour and flavour.

Serving Suggestions

This shake is perfect on its own, but you can also enjoy it with:

• A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top
• A side of biscuits or cookies
• A light breakfast like toast or poha

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this shake is best enjoyed immediately. But if you absolutely have to store it, you can keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before drinking.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is a Njalipoovan banana and where can I find it?

Njalipoovan bananas are a South Indian variety known for their unique flavour and aroma. You can usually find them at Indian grocery stores or farmers’ markets, especially in South India.

Can I use other banana varieties if Njalipoovan isn’t available?

While njalipoovan bananas are ideal, you can substitute them with other small, sweet bananas like rasthali or even ripe plantains. The flavour won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious!

Can I make this shake ahead of time?

It’s best to make it right before serving, as it can lose its texture and flavour over time.

How can I adjust the thickness of the shake?

Add more ice cubes for a thicker shake, or more milk for a thinner shake.

Is Horlicks essential for this recipe, or can I substitute it?

Horlicks adds a unique flavour, but you can substitute it with other malted milk powders or even a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.

What are the health benefits of Njalipoovan bananas?

Njalipoovan bananas are a good source of potassium, fibre, and vitamins. They are also believed to have cooling properties, making them perfect for hot weather!