Saffron Milk Recipe – Traditional Indian Kesari Milk Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Saffron Milk Recipe – Traditional Indian Kesari Milk Drink

Hey everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe that’s close to my heart – a warm, comforting glass of Saffron Milk, or Kesari Milk as it’s lovingly called in many Indian households. This isn’t just a drink; it’s a hug in a glass, a taste of home, and something my dadi (grandmother) always made for us when we were feeling under the weather. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the aroma alone is enough to lift your spirits. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Saffron Milk recipe is more than just delicious. It’s quick – ready in under 10 minutes! It requires just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s wonderfully versatile. You can enjoy it warm for a cozy evening treat or chilled for a refreshing summer drink. Honestly, it’s pure comfort in a glass.

Ingredients

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

• 1 cup milk (about 240ml)
• 2 teaspoons sugar (about 8g) – adjust to your liking!
• 10 saffron strands

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients, because a little know-how goes a long way!

Milk: Choosing the Right Type

You can use any kind of milk you prefer! Full-fat milk will give you the richest, creamiest result, which is how I usually make it. But feel free to use low-fat milk, almond milk, or even oat milk for a lighter version.

Sugar: Adjusting Sweetness Levels

I like my Kesari Milk with a touch of sweetness, but you can definitely adjust this to your taste. Start with 2 teaspoons and add more if needed. You could also experiment with other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Saffron Strands: Quality and Origin – Kashmiri Saffron vs. Other Varieties

Now, saffron is the star of the show! Kashmiri saffron is considered the best in the world – it has a vibrant color, a strong aroma, and a slightly sweet taste. It’s a bit pricier, but a little goes a long way. If you can’t find Kashmiri saffron, don’t worry, any good quality saffron will work. Just make sure it’s a deep red color and smells fragrant.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some magic!

1. First, pour the milk into a saucepan.
2. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. You want to see small bubbles forming around the edges – this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don’t walk away, as milk can boil over quickly!
3. Once the milk is boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the sugar and saffron strands.
4. Now, simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the saffron to infuse the milk with its beautiful color and flavor. You’ll notice the milk turning a lovely golden hue.
5. Finally, remove from heat and serve hot or chilled. I love to garnish mine with a few extra saffron strands for a beautiful presentation.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Blooming the Saffron: For a more intense saffron flavor, you can bloom the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk for about 10-15 minutes before adding it to the saucepan.
• Don’t Overboil: Overboiling the milk can affect the taste and texture. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Stirring is Key: Stirring occasionally prevents the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even heating.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation!

Vegan Saffron Milk Adaptation

To make this vegan, simply substitute the dairy milk with your favorite plant-based milk – almond, soy, or oat milk all work beautifully.

Adjusting Sweetness – Sugar Alternatives

If you’re watching your sugar intake, try using a natural sweetener like dates or stevia.

Spice Level: Adding Cardamom or Nutmeg

My friend, Priya, loves adding a pinch of cardamom powder to her Kesari Milk for a warm, aromatic twist. A tiny grating of nutmeg is also delicious!

Festival Adaptations: Holi or Diwali Kesari Milk

During festivals like Holi or Diwali, I sometimes add a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pistachios and almonds for extra richness and festive flair.

Serving Suggestions

Kesari Milk is wonderful on its own, but here are a few ideas:

• Serve it with a side of biscuits (Indian cookies) for a perfect evening snack.
• Enjoy it as a comforting bedtime drink.
• Pair it with a light dessert like gulab jamun (milk balls in syrup).

Storage Instructions

Leftover Saffron Milk can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate slightly, so just give it a good stir before enjoying.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What is the best type of milk to use for Kesari Milk?

Full-fat milk gives the richest flavor, but you can use any milk you like – low-fat, almond, oat, or soy.

How can I enhance the saffron flavor in this recipe?

Blooming the saffron in warm milk before adding it to the saucepan really helps to release its flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can make it a few hours ahead and reheat it gently on the stovetop.

What are the health benefits of saffron milk?

Saffron is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also believed to improve mood and sleep.

Is Kesari Milk suitable for people with lactose intolerance?

If you’re lactose intolerant, use a lactose-free milk or a plant-based alternative.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do! It’s a little taste of tradition, a moment of comfort, and a reminder of the simple joys in life. Happy cooking!