Date and Cardamom Milk is a comforting, nutritious drink that is a staple during Ramadan, especially at Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast. This drink combines the natural sweetness of dates with the warmth and aromatic fragrance of Emperor Akbar Cardamom, making it a nourishing beverage. The richness of milk complements the deep, caramel-like flavor of the dates, while the Emperor Akbar Cardamom elevates the entire experience. Known for its rich aroma and flavor, Emperor Akbar Cardamom is the perfect addition, as it enhances the smooth, creamy texture of the milk and infuses it with a subtle but warming spice. It’s the perfect drink to hydrate and replenish the body after a long day of fasting.
Ingredients:
• Milk – 2 cups (whole milk or any plant-based milk of choice)
• Dates – 5-6 pitted dates (soaked for 30 minutes if dry)
• Emperor Akbar Green Cardamom – 3-4 pods (crushed)
• Honey or sugar – 1-2 tbsp (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp (optional)
• Almonds or pistachios – for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dates: If you are using dry dates, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften.
Once the dates are soft, pit them and chop them into smaller pieces to help them blend easily into the milk.
2. Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning.
Once the milk is warmed (but not boiling), add the Emperor Akbar Cardamom pods. Slightly crush the cardamom pods to release their oils and enhance the flavor. Let the milk simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes to infuse the cardamom.
3. Blend the Dates: Add the soaked and chopped dates to the milk. Use a spoon to stir them in, allowing the dates to dissolve and release their natural sweetness.
Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dates have fully softened and blended into the milk.
4. Sweeten the Milk: Taste the milk, and if desired, add honey or sugar to adjust the sweetness to your liking. Stir well to dissolve.
You can also add a dash of vanilla extract for a little extra flavor, but this is optional.
5. Strain the Drink (Optional): If you prefer a smooth, creamy texture, you can strain the milk using a fine mesh sieve to remove any date bits or cardamom pods.
Alternatively, you can leave the drink unstrained for a more rustic, thicker consistency.
6. Serve the Drink: Pour the milk into serving glasses. If desired, garnish with crushed almonds or pistachios for a delightful crunch and extra flavor. Serve hot, immediately after preparing, to enjoy the full warmth and rich aroma of the Emperor Akbar Cardamom.
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