Looking for a cool, nutty drink that’s both refreshing and satisfying?
This Pista Milk blends the earthy sweetness of pistachios with fragrant saffron and cardamom—perfect for sipping on a hot summer afternoon or serving as a luxe treat at your next gathering.
A Sip of Royalty from Mughal Kitchens
Pista (pistachio) milk traces its roots to Mughal-era India, where nuts and aromatic spices were prized for both flavor and status.
By soaking pistachios in milk with saffron and cardamom, royal chefs created a drink that was as nourishing as it was indulgent. Today, this blend remains a favorite across South Asia, celebrated for its rich taste and cooling properties.
Why You’ll Love This Pista Milk
- Quick & Cold: No cooking required—ready in minutes.
- Nutty Protein Boost: Pistachios add healthy fats, fiber, and plant protein.
- Natural Cooling: Saffron and milk soothe the summer heat.
- Lightly Sweetened: Just a hint of sugar lets the pistachios shine.
Ingredient Breakdown
- Pistachios: Provide a creamy base, vibrant green color, and essential nutrients.
- Saffron: Infuses a subtle floral aroma and golden hue.
- Milk: Delivers creaminess and calcium.
- Sugar: Balances the nutty earthiness.
- Cardamom Powder: Adds warm, citrusy spice.
- Ice Cubes: Keep it chilled without diluting flavor.
🌿 Vegan Swap: Use almond or oat milk instead of dairy, swap sugar for maple syrup for healthier option, and you’ve got a vegan-friendly version that’s just as creamy.
How It All Comes Together
Start by soaking pistachios and saffron in a bit of milk—this unlocks their flavors and softens the nuts for effortless blending.
After 15 minutes, grind them into a smooth, vibrant green paste. In a clean blender, combine fresh milk, sugar, cardamom, and your pistachio-saffron paste, then add ice cubes and blend until frothy and well-mixed.
💡 Pro Tip: Always use boiled chilled milk when blending the pista paste—this keeps the color fresh and the drink creamy without needing extra ice that can water it down.
How It All Comes Together
Start by soaking pistachios and saffron in a bit of milk—this unlocks their flavors and softens the nuts for effortless blending. After 15 minutes, grind them into a smooth, vibrant green paste. In a clean blender, combine fresh milk, sugar, cardamom, and your pistachio-saffron paste, then add ice cubes and blend until frothy and well-mixed.
What Goes Along
- Samosa: The crispy, spicy filling contrasts beautifully with the cooling pista milk.
- Chaat (like Dahi Puri or Papdi Chaat) : Offers a mix of sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures.
- Light Savories: Cheese toast or cucumber sandwiches balance the sweetness.
- Fresh Fruit Platter: Melons and berries add a crisp, juicy contrast.
- Stuffed Paratha (like Aloo or Paneer) :For a heavier breakfast, this makes a wholesome combo.
How to Serve
Fill tall glasses with a few ice cubes, pour in the pista milk, and garnish with chopped pistachios and a few saffron strands. Serve immediately with long spoons or straws.
Packing & Party Prep
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the pistachio paste up to a day ahead—store it chilled.
- On-the-Go: Pre-mix milk, sugar, and cardamom; carry pistachio paste in a separate jar—blend just before serving.
- Bulk Batches: Double or triple ingredient quantities in a large pitcher; stir well and keep refrigerated until guests arrive.
- Transport Tips: For outdoor parties or picnics, pack milk base in insulated jugs and pistachio paste in leak-proof containers—blend on-site over crushed ice for best flavor and froth.
Pista Milk
Description
A delightfully creamy Pista Milk made by blending pistachio–saffron paste with chilled milk, sugar, and cardamom, then frothing it over ice. Garnished with chopped pistachios and saffron strands, this quick, no-cook drink is perfect for summer parties or anytime you crave a cool, nutty refreshment.
Ingredients
Instructions
Prep Work
-
Soak pistachios
In a small bowl, combine pistachios and saffron with milk. Cover and leave for 15 minutes.
Method
-
Grind pistachio paste
Transfer the soaked mixture to a blender and grind into a smooth paste. Set aside.
-
Blend all ingredients
Pour boiled and cooled milk into the large blender, add sugar, cardamom powder, pistachio paste, and ice cubes. Blend well.
-
Serve chilled
Place a few ice cubes in glasses, pour the blended pista milk over them. -
Garnish and enjoy
Top with chopped pistachios and saffron strands. Serve immediately.
Equipment
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Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 220kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Cholesterol 20mg7%
- Sodium 80mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 20g7%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 18g
- Protein 8g16%
- Vitamin A 500 IU
- Vitamin C 0.5 mg
- Calcium 250 mg
- Iron 1 mg
- Vitamin E 1.2 IU
- Magnesium 45 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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