Authentic Indian Dry Fruit Milk Recipe – Figs, Dates & Almonds

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Indian Dry Fruit Milk Recipe – Figs, Dates & Almonds

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you love a comforting, nourishing drink that feels like a warm hug from the inside. This Dry Fruit Milk (or Dry Fruit Sharbat as some call it) is exactly that. I remember my grandmother making this for us during the hot summer months, and honestly, it’s a taste of childhood I cherish. It’s packed with goodness, incredibly easy to make, and seriously delicious. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just a drink; it’s a little bit of Indian tradition in a glass. It’s perfect for a quick energy boost, a healthy treat, or a soothing bedtime drink. Plus, it’s naturally sweet and flavorful, thanks to the wonderful combination of dried fruits and aromatic cardamom. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrients, especially if you have picky eaters!

Ingredients

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

• 3 cups Chilled Milk (about 720ml)
• 2 tbsp Honey or Sugar (approximately 25-30g)
• 8 Cashew nuts (about 20g)
• 6 Almonds (about 15g)
• 3 Dates (deseeded) (about 45g)
• 2 Dried Figs (about 30g)
• 10 Raisins (about 15g)
• 8 Pistachios (about 15g)
• 1 Walnut (about 7g)
• 0.5 tsp Cardamom powder (about 1g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Using good quality dried fruits really makes a difference.

• Figs & Dates: These aren’t just sweet; they’re packed with fiber and iron. They also give the drink a lovely, naturally thick texture.
• Almonds, Cashews, Pistachios & Walnuts: A powerhouse of healthy fats and protein! They add a lovely richness and nutty flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other nuts too.
• Milk: Traditionally, full-fat milk is used for a richer flavor, but you can absolutely use any milk you prefer (more on that in the variations section!). Cow’s milk is most common, but almond or soy milk work beautifully.
• Cardamom: This is essential! Cardamom is a staple in Indian beverages and desserts, adding a warm, fragrant aroma that’s just divine. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some magic!

1. First, grab a bowl and add your chopped figs, dates, almonds, raisins, and pistachios. Pour in ¼ cup (60ml) of milk and let them soak for about 15 minutes. This softens them up and makes blending a breeze.
2. Now, it’s blending time! Transfer the soaked fruits and nuts to a food processor or blender. Blend until you have a smooth, paste-like consistency. You might need to scrape down the sides a couple of times.
3. Add the remaining milk, honey or sugar, and cardamom powder to the blender. Blend again until everything is well combined and the mixture is frothy and light.
4. Pour into tall glasses, garnish with a few reserved almonds and pistachios (because presentation matters!), and serve chilled. Seriously, that first sip is heaven.

Expert Tips

Want to take your Dry Fruit Milk to the next level? Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Consistency is Key: If you prefer a thinner drink, add a little more milk. For a thicker, more milkshake-like consistency, use less milk or add a couple of ice cubes during blending.
• Preventing Separation: Sometimes the drink can separate slightly after a while. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
• Flavor Boost: Don’t be shy with the cardamom! But remember, a little goes a long way.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Vegan Adaptation: Simply swap the dairy milk for your favorite plant-based milk – almond, soy, or oat milk all work wonderfully. And use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey. My friend, Priya, swears by using cashew milk for an extra creamy texture!
• Sugar-Free Variation: Skip the honey or sugar altogether! The dates and figs provide plenty of natural sweetness. You can also add a few drops of stevia if you like.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Feeling adventurous? Add a tiny pinch of saffron strands (just a few!) or a dash of nutmeg for a warmer, more complex flavor.
• Festival Adaptations: During festivals like Holi or Diwali, this drink is often enjoyed as a refreshing treat. Some families add a sprinkle of rose petals for an extra festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

This Dry Fruit Milk is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your experience:

• Serve with a side of biscuits (Indian cookies) or namkeen (savory snacks).
• Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and a drizzle of honey.
• For a more indulgent treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? No problem! You can store this Dry Fruit Milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate slightly, so just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Is this drink suitable for diabetics? It’s best to consume in moderation. The natural sugars from the dates and figs can affect blood sugar levels. Using a sugar-free variation and consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended.
• Can I use different types of nuts and dried fruits? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorites. Apricots, prunes, and macadamia nuts would all be delicious additions.
• How can I make this drink warmer for colder months? Gently warm the milk before blending, but don’t boil it. You can also add a pinch of ginger powder for extra warmth.
• What is the best way to adjust the sweetness? Start with a small amount of honey or sugar and taste as you go. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Can this be made ahead of time, and if so, for how long? You can soak the dry fruits overnight for a more intense flavor. The blended drink is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for up to 24 hours in the fridge.

Enjoy! I hope this recipe brings a little bit of Indian sunshine into your day. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!