Let Go & Celebrate a Healthy Holi — With a Twist on Thandai!

Holi is all about colors, joy, and togetherness — but let’s make it a celebration for the body and soul too! This year, let go of the stress, the heaviness, and the sugar overload. Instead, nourish yourself with a refreshing, healthy twist on traditional flavors — a Thandai Chia Pudding!

First, let’s talk about Thandai Mix — the heart of this recipe:

I prepare my thandai mix by combining equal parts of:

• Almonds, Cashews, and Pistachios — rich and creamy.

• Melon Seeds — for a cooling effect.

Optional: For an extra nutrient boost, you can also add a small portion of Makhana (fox nuts).

But what makes this thandai mix truly special are these three powerful flavors:

• Fennel Seeds (cooling and aromatic)

• Poppy Seeds (soft nuttiness)

• Dried Rose Petals (fragrance and color) — adjust quantity depending on how floral you want it!

Ratio Tip: If you use ½ cup each of almonds, cashews, pistachios, and melon seeds, take slightly less fennel, poppy seeds, and rose petals to balance the flavors.

To prepare the mix:

Dry roast everything except the rose petals to enhance the flavor. Cool them, blend them into a fine powder, and your homemade thandai mix is ready!

Now for the Vegan Almond-Chia Pudding Version:

1. Almond Milk Base:

• Soak 20-25 almonds in warm water overnight (or hot water for a quicker version).

• Peel them and grind them into a thick paste.

• Store this paste in the fridge for a few days if needed.

• To use: Thin it with water to the desired milk consistency.

2. Chia Layer:

• Soak 3-4 tablespoons of chia seeds in minimal water until they gel up (about 30 minutes to a few hours).

3. Combine & Flavor:

• Mix chia seeds with fresh almond milk.

• Add thandai mix as per taste and stir well.

• Let this mix chill in the fridge for 6-7 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld beautifully.

4. Sweeten Naturally (optional but lovely!):

• Add a touch of honey or maple syrup when serving — no refined sugar needed.

5. Serve with Elegance:

• Top with chopped pistachios, slivered almonds, and a sprinkle of organic rose petals for a festive touch.

Enjoy this chilled, creamy, flavor-packed Thandai Chia Pudding as a refreshing start or end to your Holi day. Celebrate colors — and health — with every spoon!

Let this Holi be about letting go, feeling light, and embracing joy in every way.

Wishing you all a colorful, joyful, and nourishing Holi!