Warm Milk
Global • Eggetarian
How to Make Warm Milk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Warm Milk, known as 'Garam Doodh' in Hindi, holds a timeless place in Indian households. This comforting beverage is more than just a drink; it's a ritual passed down through generations, especially before bedtime or during chilly mornings. Indian families often enhance warm milk with regional spices such as elaichi (cardamom), haldi (turmeric), kesar (saffron), and a touch of honey or mishri, making it both nourishing and flavorful. Warm Milk is deeply woven into the Indian way of life. It is commonly served to children, elders, and guests alike, symbolizing hospitality and care. During festivals like Navratri, Diwali, and Lohri, warm milk is often offered as prasad or enjoyed with sweets and dry fruits. The taste is rich, creamy, and subtly aromatic from the spices, making it an appealing and healthy snack. For those seeking a traditional yet light beverage, this recipe offers both comfort and nutrition in every sip.
Ingredients(for 1 glass (200 ml) per serving)
- 2 cups Full cream milk (doodh)
- 2 Cardamom pods (elaichi, lightly crushed)
- 5-6 Saffron strands (kesar) - optional
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi) - optional
- 1 tsp Honey (or mishri for sweetness)
- 4 Almonds (badam, sliced) - optional
- a pinch Black pepper powder (kali mirch) - optional
- 1/2 inch Cinnamon stick (dalchini) - optional
- a pinch Nutmeg powder (jaiphal) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Pour 2 cups of full cream milk into a heavy-bottomed pan and place it on medium heat.
2 minutes
Use a thick-bottomed pan to prevent the milk from scorching.
- 2
Add lightly crushed cardamom pods, saffron strands, and cinnamon stick to the milk.
2 minutes
Crushing the spices releases more flavor and aroma.
- 3
Stir in turmeric powder and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance both color and health benefits.
1 minute
Haldi and jaiphal aid digestion and boost immunity.
- 4
Allow the milk to come to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7 minutes
Simmering helps the spices infuse fully into the milk.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This traditional Indian warm milk recipe is healthy due to minimal processing and the inclusion of superfoods like turmeric, cardamom, and almonds. The recipe avoids refined sugar, opting for natural sweeteners, which helps maintain balanced blood sugar levels. It's naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and can be adapted for vegan diets. The controlled use of spices and portion size makes it suitable for daily consumption and weight management.
Warm milk is an excellent source of high-quality protein, calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins. Adding spices like turmeric and cardamom boosts antioxidant properties and supports digestion. Almonds provide healthy fats and vitamin E, while natural sweeteners like honey or mishri offer a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugar. This beverage supports bone health, muscle repair, and overall immunity, making it a nutrient-dense choice for all age groups.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always use fresh, good-quality milk for the best flavor and nutrition.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust spices to your preference; add more or less based on taste and digestion.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra richness, add a teaspoon of ghee while simmering.
Storage & Serving
Consume immediately for best taste and nutrition. If storing, refrigerate in a covered container for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently before serving, avoiding a boil to preserve the flavor of the spices.
Best served: Breakfast or Evening Snack
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 150.0 kcal |
