- Peel and chop carrots into 1-inch pieces. Place in a microwave-safe container and cover with water.
- Microwave carrots for 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Let cool slightly before handling.
- Combine cooked carrots (with some of the cooking water), milk, and honey in a blender. Blend until smooth, adding more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Pour into chilled glasses and serve immediately. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra richness, if desired.
- Calories:220 kcal25%
- Energy:920 kJ22%
- Protein:5 g28%
- Carbohydrates:35 mg40%
- Sugar:20 mg8%
- Salt:80 g25%
- Fat:4.5 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Carrot Milk Recipe – Easy Honey-Sweetened Indian Drink
Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a super simple, refreshing, and surprisingly delicious drink, you have to try this carrot milk. It’s a childhood favorite of mine, and honestly, it’s the perfect way to sneak in some extra veggies – even my picky little cousin loves it! It’s naturally sweet, creamy, and takes just minutes to whip up. Let’s get started, shall we?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This carrot milk isn’t just a tasty treat; it’s a little hug in a glass. It’s incredibly easy to make, needing just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those carrots in your fridge! It’s perfect for a quick breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or even a light dessert. Honestly, it’s just good vibes all around.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy carrot milk:
- 2 large carrots
- 1 cup water (240ml)
- 1 cup cold milk (240ml)
- 2 tbsp honey (approx. 30ml)
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients for a sec – a few little things that can make all the difference!
Carrots: Choosing the Best Varieties
Any carrots will work, but I find that sweeter varieties like Nantes carrots give the best flavor. Look for firm, bright orange carrots without any blemishes. Don’t worry about perfectly shaped ones, though!
Honey: Benefits and Alternatives
I love using honey because it adds a lovely floral sweetness. But feel free to swap it out! Maple syrup (about 2 tablespoons) or even agave nectar work beautifully. If you’re looking for a more traditional Indian sweetener, you could try using a little bit of misri (rock sugar).
Milk: Dairy vs. Non-Dairy Options
Traditionally, this is made with full-fat milk for extra creaminess. However, any milk works! Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk – they all create a delicious drink. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly depending on the milk you choose. I’ve made it with almond milk when my friend was visiting and she absolutely loved it!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking (well, blending!). It’s seriously easy.
First, peel and chop those carrots into large pieces. Don’t worry about being too precise here. Place them in a microwave-safe container and add the water.
Next, microwave the carrots and water for about 10 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. You want them soft enough to blend easily. Let them cool completely – this is important!
Now, for the magic! Combine the cooled carrots (and any remaining water from cooking), the cold milk, and the honey in a blender.
Blend, blend, blend until everything is super smooth and creamy. Seriously, blend it well – nobody wants chunky carrot milk!
Finally, pour into chilled glasses and serve immediately. If you’re feeling extra fancy (and I often am!), add a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Expert Tips
Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:
- Chill your glasses: This makes the drink even more refreshing.
- Don’t skip the cooling step: Warm carrot milk isn’t the most appealing thing!
- Adjust sweetness to taste: Everyone has a different sweet tooth. Add more or less honey as needed.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:
Vegan Carrot Milk
Simply use your favorite plant-based milk! Almond, soy, or oat milk all work wonderfully.
Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Ginger or Cardamom)
A tiny pinch of ground cardamom or a small piece of grated ginger can add a lovely warming spice. My grandmother always added a pinch of cardamom – it’s so comforting.
Festival Adaptations (Holi or Summer Cooling Drink)
During Holi, you can add a tiny drop of food coloring for a festive touch! It’s also incredibly refreshing during hot summer months.
Gluten-Free Considerations
Good news! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. You can enjoy it without any worries.
Serving Suggestions
This carrot milk is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special:
- Serve with a side of biscuits (Indian cookies).
- Pair it with a light breakfast like poha (flattened rice).
- Enjoy it as a refreshing afternoon snack.
Storage Instructions
This is best enjoyed immediately. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before drinking.
FAQs
Let’s answer some common questions!
Is this drink suitable for diabetics?
It’s best to consume this in moderation if you have diabetes, due to the natural sugars in carrots and honey. Consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of honey.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can cook and cool the carrots ahead of time. Then, just blend everything when you’re ready to drink it.
What if I don’t have a blender?
You can try mashing the cooked carrots really well and then mixing them with the milk and honey. It won’t be as smooth, but it will still be tasty!
Can I use jaggery instead of honey?
Absolutely! Jaggery will give it a more earthy flavor. Use about 2 tablespoons of grated jaggery. You might need to blend a little longer to dissolve it completely.
Are there any health benefits to drinking carrot milk?
Definitely! Carrots are packed with Vitamin A and antioxidants. Plus, milk provides calcium and protein. It’s a nutritious and delicious way to boost your health!