Saffron Milk Recipe – Pistachio & Rose Flavored Indian Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Saffron Milk Recipe – Pistachio & Rose Flavored Indian Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a comforting, fragrant, and subtly sweet drink, you have to try this Saffron Milk. It’s more than just a warm beverage; it’s a little hug in a mug, and honestly, it’s been a family favorite for generations. I remember my grandmother making this for us whenever we weren’t feeling well, and the aroma alone was enough to make everything feel better. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Saffron Milk (Kesar Doodh, as we call it at home) is incredibly soothing and flavorful. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a special occasion, or even just a little self-care moment. The delicate floral notes of saffron, combined with the nutty crunch of pistachios and almonds, and the subtle sweetness of rose petals, create a truly magical experience. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this golden elixir:

• 4 cups milk (approximately 950ml)
• 2-4 tbsp sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference – about 25-50g)
• A pinch of saffron strands (around 15-20 strands)
• 2 tbsp pistachios, chopped (approximately 15g)
• 2 tbsp almonds, chopped (approximately 15g)
• 2 tbsp rose petals, culinary grade (approximately 10g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can really elevate this recipe.

Milk: Types & Fat Content

Full-fat milk creates the richest, most luxurious texture. However, you can absolutely use lower-fat milk or even skim milk if you prefer. I’ve also experimented with oat milk for a vegan version (more on that later!).

Saffron Strands: Quality & Source

This is key. Good quality saffron will have a vibrant color and a strong aroma. Look for saffron from Kashmir – it’s considered the best! A little goes a long way, so don’t skimp, but you also don’t need a huge amount.

Sugar: Alternatives & Adjustments

I usually use granulated sugar, but you can substitute with honey, maple syrup, or even jaggery for a more traditional Indian sweetness. Adjust the amount to your liking – start with 2 tablespoons and add more if needed.

Pistachios & Almonds: Roasting for Enhanced Flavor

Lightly roasting the pistachios and almonds before chopping them really brings out their flavor. Just a few minutes in a dry pan will do the trick! Watch them carefully, as they burn easily.

Rose Petals: Culinary Grade & Sourcing

Make sure you’re using culinary grade rose petals. You can find these online or at specialty spice stores. Regular rose petals may have been treated with pesticides.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, pour in the milk. This prevents scorching.
2. Heat the milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You want to bring it to a gentle simmer, but don’t let it boil over.
3. Continue to cook the milk, stirring frequently, until it reduces to about ¾ of its original volume. This usually takes around 60-70 minutes – patience is key! This is where the magic happens, concentrating the flavors.
4. Add the sugar and mix well until dissolved.
5. Now, add the saffron strands. Stir them in and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly and turns a beautiful golden hue.
6. Finally, garnish with the chopped pistachios, almonds, and rose petals.
7. Serve warm or chilled – it’s delicious either way!

Expert Tips

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

• Don’t walk away from the milk while it’s simmering! Constant stirring prevents sticking and ensures even heating.
• For a more intense saffron flavor, you can steep the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk for about 15-20 minutes before adding them to the main pot.
• If you find the milk is getting too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.

Variations

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

Spice Level: Adding Cardamom or Nutmeg

A pinch of cardamom powder or grated nutmeg adds a lovely warmth and complexity. My friend, Priya, swears by a tiny dash of cardamom – it’s divine!

Vegan Adaptation: Using Plant-Based Milk

Swap the dairy milk for almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk for a delicious vegan version. Oat milk is my personal favorite, as it has a naturally creamy texture.

Festival Adaptations: Serving During Special Occasions

During Diwali, we often add a tiny bit of silver leaf (vark) for an extra touch of festivity. It’s purely for aesthetics, but it looks beautiful!

Sweetness Level: Adjusting Sugar to Preference

Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet drink, start with 2 tablespoons and add more as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Saffron Milk is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a light snack like biscuits or a piece of fruit. It’s also a lovely accompaniment to traditional Indian desserts.

Storage Instructions

You can store leftover Saffron Milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. The flavor might intensify slightly overnight.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What are the health benefits of saffron milk?

Saffron is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Milk is a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Together, they make a nourishing and comforting drink!

Can I make saffron milk ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Just reheat it gently before serving.

What is the best type of milk to use for saffron milk?

Full-fat milk creates the richest flavor and texture, but you can use any type of milk you prefer.

How do I know if my saffron is authentic?

Authentic saffron will have a vibrant red color, a strong aroma, and slightly flared crimson stigmas. It should also be a bit pricey – good quality saffron isn’t cheap!

Can I use saffron powder instead of strands?

While you can use saffron powder, the flavor won’t be as complex or nuanced as using strands. I highly recommend using strands if possible.

Can this recipe be doubled or tripled?

Absolutely! Just adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly. Keep in mind that it will take longer to reduce the milk if you’re making a larger batch.

Enjoy this beautiful and comforting Saffron Milk! I hope it brings a little warmth and happiness to your day. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!