Winter in India is the perfect season to indulge in a variety of hot drinks that not only keep you warm but also provide a comforting experience. Whether you’re seeking to boost your immunity, satisfy your sweet tooth, or just warm up after a chilly day, Indian hot beverages have got you covered. These drinks are made with a variety of spices, herbs, and traditional ingredients that make them both delicious and nutritious.
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What is Hot Drinks ?
Hot drinks are beverages served at a warm or hot temperature, typically consumed to provide comfort, warmth, or relaxation, especially in cold weather. They are popular across the globe and can be made from a variety of ingredients like tea leaves, coffee beans, milk, spices, and herbs. These drinks often serve functional purposes, such as boosting energy, promoting relaxation, or offering health benefits.
Here’s a guide to some of the most viral Indian hot drink recipes that you must try this winter.
1. Masala Chai (Spiced Tea)
A classic winter drink in India, Masala Chai combines tea with a blend of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and black pepper. The warming spices help stimulate the body and enhance your immunity. This drink is a great way to start your day, especially when served with crispy snacks like pakoras.
How to Make:
- Boil water with a mix of crushed spices (ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves).
- Add tea leaves and simmer for a few minutes.
- Pour in milk and sugar to taste, and let it boil again.
- Strain and serve hot.
2. Kashmiri Kahwa
A signature drink from the Kashmir valley, Kahwa is a soothing and aromatic green tea infused with spices, saffron, and dry fruits. It’s the perfect beverage to sip while cozying up with a book or chatting with friends.
How to Make:
- Boil water with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom.
- Add green tea leaves and let it brew for a couple of minutes.
- Pour the tea through a strainer and top it with crushed almonds and saffron strands.
3. Kadha (Herbal Remedy Drink)
Kadha is an age-old Ayurvedic remedy that has made a big comeback in recent years. Packed with health-boosting ingredients like tulsi, ginger, black pepper, and turmeric, this drink is ideal for combating cold and flu during the winter months.
How to Make:
- Boil water with herbs such as tulsi, ginger, and black pepper.
- Add turmeric and a bit of jaggery or honey for sweetness.
- Strain and drink this immune-boosting drink daily to stay healthy.
4. Hot Chocolate with a Desi Twist
Hot chocolate may not be traditionally Indian, but its popularity has soared in the subcontinent, especially in winters. To add a desi flair, try infusing it with cardamom, saffron, or even chili for a spicy kick. Topped with whipped cream or marshmallows, it’s a perfect indulgence for those cozy evenings.
How to Make:
- Heat milk and mix in cocoa powder.
- Stir in sugar and a pinch of cardamom or saffron for an exotic flavor.
- Top with whipped cream or marshmallows for an added treat.
5. Kesar Doodh (Saffron Milk)
This luxurious drink combines the richness of saffron with the creamy texture of milk. Known for its soothing and calming properties, Kesar Doodh is perfect before bed, helping you relax and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.
How to Make:
- Warm milk in a pan and add saffron strands.
- Sweeten with sugar or honey.
- For added richness, sprinkle crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios.
6. Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)
Popularly known as “golden milk,” Haldi Doodh is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and immunity-boosting properties. A glass of turmeric milk at night is a wonderful way to wind down and fight off any seasonal illnesses.
How to Make:
- Heat milk and add a teaspoon of turmeric powder.
- Stir in honey for sweetness and black pepper to enhance absorption.
- Drink before bed to reap its health benefits.
7. Ginger Tea
A staple in Indian households, Ginger Tea (adrak chai) is renowned for its ability to warm you up and soothe a sore throat. Infused with ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties, it’s a go-to drink when battling the winter chill.
How to Make:
- Boil water with ginger and cardamom.
- Add tea leaves and sugar, then simmer for a few minutes.
- Add milk and strain before serving.
8. Rasam
Rasam, though traditionally a soup, makes for a tangy, flavorful hot drink in winters. Made from tamarind, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, Rasam is not only a great digestive aid but also perfect for warming you up.
How to Make:
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- Boil tamarind, tomatoes, and spices like mustard seeds, cumin, and black pepper.
- Add water and cook until well-blended.
- Serve hot as a flavorful soup or drink.
9. Jaggery Tea
Made with jaggery, a natural sweetener that is packed with minerals, Jaggery Tea is a healthier alternative to traditional sugar tea. It helps in digestion, detoxification, and is perfect to drink on a cold morning.
How to Make:
- Boil water and add jaggery along with tea leaves.
- Let it simmer and then pour through a strainer into your cup.
- Add milk if you prefer a richer taste.
10. Badam Ka Doodh (Almond Milk)
For a nutrient-packed drink, try Badam Ka Doodh. Blended with almonds, cardamom, and saffron, this rich milk is a great source of protein and healthy fats, ideal for boosting your energy during the winter months.
How to Make:
- Boil milk with crushed almonds, cardamom, and saffron.
- Let it simmer, then strain and serve.
11. Kharik Badam Ka Doodh (Date & Almond Milk)
This indulgent drink made with dates and almonds is rich in nutrients and perfect for those who enjoy a sweet, nutty beverage in winter. The combination of dates and almonds provides natural sweetness and boosts energy.
How to Make:
- Boil milk and add a paste of almonds and dates.
- Simmer the mixture and add cardamom and saffron.
- Serve hot for a rich, nutritious treat.
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12. Bajari Ni Raab (Millet Drink)
A traditional drink from Gujarat, Bajari Ni Raab is made from bajra (millet) and ghee, offering a hearty and filling drink during the cold months. It’s often consumed after meals for its digestive benefits.
How to Make:
- Heat ghee in a pan and add bajra flour.
- Add water and sugar, cooking it until it forms a thick, drinkable consistency.
- Serve with a touch of ghee for extra flavor.
These viral Indian hot drinks are a perfect way to embrace the chill of winter. They not only warm you up but also offer health benefits that keep you active and energized throughout the season. Whether you’re sipping on a traditional Masala Chai or indulging in a luxurious glass of Kesar Doodh, these beverages will undoubtedly add a flavorful touch to your winter routine.
Try these drinks this season, and let us know which one becomes your winter favorite!
FAQs
What are hot drinks?
Hot drinks are beverages served at a warm or hot temperature, often consumed for comfort, warmth, or health benefits, especially in colder weather.
Why are hot drinks popular in winter?
Hot drinks help keep the body warm, provide comfort during cold months, and often contain ingredients like spices, herbs, or caffeine, which boost energy or promote relaxation.
What is the most popular hot drink in the world?
Tea is one of the most popular hot drinks globally, with various types like black tea, green tea, and herbal teas enjoyed worldwide.
What are the health benefits of drinking hot tea?
Hot tea, especially green and herbal varieties, can help with digestion, provide antioxidants, and support immune health. Herbal teas like chamomile also have calming effects.
How does hot chocolate differ from regular chocolate milk?
Hot chocolate is made with cocoa powder or chocolate melted into milk, whereas chocolate milk is cold and typically has syrup or premixed powder without heating.
What is Masala Chai?
Masala Chai is a traditional Indian spiced tea made with tea leaves, milk, sugar, and a blend of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
Can hot drinks help with digestion?
Yes, many hot drinks like ginger tea and herbal teas such as peppermint or chamomile can aid digestion and soothe an upset stomach.
Is coffee considered a hot drink?
Yes, coffee is one of the most widely consumed hot drinks, made by brewing ground coffee beans with hot water.
What are the benefits of drinking hot coffee?
Hot coffee can boost energy levels due to caffeine, improve mental alertness, and is rich in antioxidants that can benefit overall health.
What is the difference between espresso and regular coffee?
Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans, while regular coffee is brewed at a slower rate using a drip method.
What are the best hot drinks for winter?
Some of the best hot drinks for winter include Masala Chai, Kashmiri Kahwa, Hot Chocolate, Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh), and herbal infusions like ginger or peppermint tea.
How can I make a healthier hot drink?
To make healthier hot drinks, consider using natural sweeteners like honey, reducing added sugar, and opting for herbal teas or black coffee with minimal additives.
Can hot drinks help improve sleep?
Yes, herbal teas like chamomile or a warm cup of milk with a pinch of nutmeg can have calming effects, promoting better sleep.
What is turmeric milk (Haldi Doodh)?
Turmeric milk, or Haldi Doodh, is a traditional drink made with milk and turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Can I make hot drinks without caffeine?
Yes, there are many caffeine-free options like herbal teas (chamomile, peppermint), hot milk with spices, and hot chocolate made with non-caffeinated ingredients.
What is the best time to drink hot beverages?
Hot drinks are best enjoyed in the morning to kickstart the day (e.g., Masala Chai or coffee) or in the evening to unwind (e.g., herbal teas or warm milk).
Is hot tea better than cold tea?
Hot tea may be more soothing, especially in colder weather, and can help with digestion. Cold tea is refreshing during hot weather but doesn’t offer the same warming or calming benefits as hot tea.
Can hot drinks help with weight loss?
Some hot drinks like green tea and herbal teas can aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism and suppressing appetite.
What is Kashmiri Kahwa?
Kashmiri Kahwa is a spiced green tea from Kashmir, typically made with saffron, almonds, and a blend of aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon.
How do I make a perfect cup of hot chocolate?
To make a perfect cup of hot chocolate, heat milk and whisk in cocoa powder or chopped chocolate, then add sugar to taste and top with whipped cream or marshmallows.
What are the ingredients in a classic Masala Chai?
Masala Chai is made with black tea leaves, milk, sugar, and a mixture of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger.
Can hot drinks be made with plant-based milk?
Yes, you can make hot drinks using plant-based milk like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk, which work well in tea, coffee, and hot chocolate.
What is the best hot drink for cold weather?
In cold weather, warming drinks like Masala Chai, Hot Chocolate, or Turmeric Milk are ideal as they provide warmth and comfort.
What is the difference between herbal tea and regular tea?
Herbal tea is made from herbs, flowers, or spices and does not contain tea leaves, whereas regular tea is made from Camellia sinensis leaves (black, green, white, etc.).
Can drinking hot drinks cause dehydration?
Drinking hot drinks like tea or coffee in moderation does not cause dehydration. However, excessive caffeine can have a diuretic effect, so it’s essential to balance it with water intake.
What is Badam Ka Doodh (Almond Milk)?
Badam Ka Doodh is a hot drink made by blending almonds with milk, often flavored with cardamom and saffron, providing a rich, creamy beverage full of nutrients.
What are the best ingredients for making a soothing hot drink?
To make a soothing hot drink, consider ingredients like honey, ginger, cinnamon, chamomile, and turmeric, all known for their calming and health-promoting effects.
How do I make a good cup of black coffee?
To make a good cup of black coffee, use freshly ground coffee beans, hot water, and a brewing method like drip, pour-over, or French press to extract the rich flavors.
What are the best hot drinks for energy?
Hot drinks like coffee, Masala Chai, and green tea are great for boosting energy, thanks to their caffeine content and energizing properties.
Can I drink hot tea after meals?
Yes, hot tea, especially herbal varieties like peppermint or ginger tea, can aid digestion after meals and help soothe the stomach.
What is the difference between chai and Masala Chai?
Chai refers to basic tea made with milk, water, and sugar, while Masala Chai includes spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves for added flavor and warmth.
Is hot milk good for health?
Hot milk is rich in calcium and protein, making it beneficial for bone health and relaxation, especially when combined with spices like turmeric or cardamom.
What is the role of ginger in hot drinks?
Ginger is commonly used in hot drinks for its warming, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits. It can be added to tea, milk, or made into a soothing ginger infusion.
What are the best hot drinks for sore throat?
Hot drinks like ginger tea, warm honey lemon water, or hot turmeric milk can help soothe a sore throat and provide relief.
How do I make a spiced hot drink?
To make a spiced hot drink, you can combine ingredients like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, or ginger with tea, milk, or water.
What is the significance of saffron in hot drinks?
Saffron is often used in hot drinks for its rich flavor and health benefits, including improving mood, digestion, and providing antioxidant properties.
How can I make my hot drinks sweeter naturally?
You can make your hot drinks sweeter by using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, agave, or stevia instead of refined sugar.
Can hot drinks be part of a detox regimen?
Yes, some hot drinks, like green tea or lemon ginger tea, are commonly used in detox programs for their cleansing and metabolism-boosting effects.
How do I make a vegan hot chocolate?
To make a vegan hot chocolate, use dairy-free milk like almond or coconut milk, and ensure that the cocoa powder or chocolate is free from animal products.
Is it safe to drink hot drinks while pregnant?
Generally, hot drinks like herbal teas and warm milk are safe during pregnancy. However, it’s essential to avoid high-caffeine drinks like coffee and certain herbal teas that may not be pregnancy-friendly.
What is Bajari Ni Raab?
Bajari Ni Raab is a traditional drink from Gujarat made from millet flour, ghee, and sugar, often consumed during the winter for its warming and energy-boosting properties.
What are the benefits of drinking ginger tea?
Ginger tea is known for its digestive properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and ability to relieve nausea, making it a great option for maintaining good health.
What is the best way to store hot drink ingredients like tea leaves and coffee beans?
To preserve the freshness of tea leaves and coffee beans, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark place, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Can hot drinks help with cold and flu symptoms?
Yes, hot drinks like ginger tea, turmeric milk, and lemon honey water can help alleviate symptoms of cold and flu by soothing the throat and boosting immunity.
What is the best hot drink for relaxation?
Herbal teas like chamomile or warm milk with a touch of nutmeg are ideal for relaxation, as they help calm the nervous system and promote better sleep.
How can I make hot drinks more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of hot drinks, experiment with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, or add a splash of vanilla extract or citrus zest.
Are hot drinks good for hydration?
Yes, hot drinks like herbal teas and warm water can help keep you hydrated, especially in the colder months when people may tend to drink less water.
How do I make a spicy hot drink?
To make a spicy hot drink, add ingredients like cayenne pepper, ginger, cinnamon, or black pepper to your tea or hot milk for a warming, flavorful kick.
Can hot drinks help with stress?
Certain hot drinks like chamomile tea, turmeric milk, or ginger tea are known for their calming properties, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
How can I make a hot drink for a cold day?
On a cold day, make a hot drink like Masala Chai or a rich cup of Hot Chocolate to stay warm. Adding spices like cinnamon or ginger can also boost the warming effect.