📸 Image coming soon for Basil Seeds with Milk
Basil Seeds with Milk
Beverages • India
How to Make Basil Seeds with Milk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Basil Seeds with Milk, known locally as 'Sabja Seeds Doodh', is a refreshing and nutritious beverage widely enjoyed across India, especially during the scorching summer months. Sabja seeds, often used in Ayurvedic remedies, are prized for their cooling properties and are a staple in many Indian drinks, such as falooda and sherbets. Combining these seeds with milk creates a soothing, energy-boosting drink that not only quenches thirst but also provides a host of health benefits. This beverage is particularly popular in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and South India, where it is served during festivals like Ram Navami and during fasting periods, owing to its satiety and gentle nature on the stomach. The taste of Basil Seeds with Milk is mild, creamy, and subtly sweet, making it a favourite among both adults and children. The sabja seeds impart a delightful texture, transforming the milk into a nourishing treat. With its simplicity and versatility, this drink can be easily customized with regional ingredients like rose syrup, cardamom (elaichi), or saffron (kesar). Whether enjoyed as a cooling breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a festive drink, Basil Seeds with Milk is a delicious, health-conscious choice rooted in Indian culinary tradition.
Ingredients(for 1 glass (approx. 250 ml))
- 2 tablespoons Sabja seeds (basil seeds) (Commonly called tukmaria)
- 500 ml Milk (Use low-fat (skimmed) milk for a healthier version)
- 2 teaspoons Honey (Can be replaced with jaggery (gur) or stevia for sweetness) - optional
- 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom powder (elaichi) (Enhances taste and aroma) - optional
- 2 teaspoons Rose syrup (For festive flavor, optional) - optional
- 4-5 strands Saffron strands (kesar) (For color and aroma, optional) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Chopped nuts (almonds/badam, pistachios/pista) (For garnish, optional) - optional
- 100 ml Chilled water (To soak basil seeds)
Instructions
- 1
Rinse sabja seeds thoroughly and soak them in 100 ml chilled water for 15 minutes until they swell and become gelatinous.
15 minutes
Stir occasionally to prevent seeds from sticking together.
- 2
Boil milk in a saucepan and let it cool to lukewarm temperature. Use low-fat milk to keep the beverage light.
10 minutes
Do not overboil to prevent skin formation.
- 3
Add honey or jaggery to the cooled milk and mix well to dissolve. Adjust sweetness as desired.
2 minutes
For diabetics, use stevia or skip sweeteners.
- 4
Mix cardamom powder (elaichi) and saffron strands (kesar) into the milk for a rich aroma and flavor.
1 minute
Crush saffron in a spoonful of warm milk before adding.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Basil Seeds with Milk is a health-conscious choice due to its high fiber content, which aids digestion and promotes satiety. The use of low-fat milk ensures a good protein intake without excess fat, while natural sweeteners like honey or jaggery provide antioxidants. Sabja seeds are known for their cooling effect, making this drink perfect for summer and fasting days. It supports overall wellness, is gentle on the stomach, and aligns with vegetarian dietary preferences.
Sabja seeds are rich in dietary fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Combined with low-fat milk, this beverage provides a moderate amount of protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle recovery. The inclusion of honey or jaggery offers natural sweetness and antioxidants. Cardamom and saffron add not just flavor but also micronutrients and digestive benefits. This drink is low in calories when made with skimmed milk and minimal sweetener, making it ideal for weight watchers and those seeking nutrient-rich hydration.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Soak sabja seeds in chilled water for best texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Use low-fat milk and minimal sweeteners for a healthier drink.
- 💡Tip 3: Add rose syrup or saffron for festive flavor and aroma.
Storage & Serving
Store prepared Basil Seeds with Milk in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving as sabja seeds may settle at the bottom. Avoid keeping for longer to maintain freshness and texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 150.0 kcal |
