Cold Brew with Milk
Beverages • India
How to Make Cold Brew with Milk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Cold Brew with Milk, or 'thandi coffee', is a refreshing beverage that has become a modern favorite across urban India, especially during warm summers and festive gatherings. Unlike the traditional hot filter coffee of South India or the creamy Doodh Coffee enjoyed in North India, cold brew offers a smoother, less acidic profile, perfect for those looking to enjoy coffee in a lighter, more digestible form. The process involves slow steeping of freshly ground coffee beans, which results in a naturally sweet, aromatic concentrate. When blended with chilled milk ('doodh'), it becomes a wholesome, energizing drink that is both satisfying and gentle on the stomach. Cold Brew with Milk is increasingly popular at Indian cafés and homes, especially among the health-conscious crowd and working professionals. It is ideal for early mornings or as a cooling accompaniment during festivals like Holi or Diwali, when guests appreciate refreshing beverages. The addition of Indian spices like elaichi (cardamom) or cinnamon can lend a subtle regional twist, making each glass unique. This health-conscious recipe avoids heavy creams and excess sugar, focusing instead on the natural flavors of quality coffee and milk.
Ingredients(for 200 ml glass)
- 1/2 cup Freshly ground coffee (medium roast) (coarsely ground; can use South Indian filter coffee powder)
- 2 cups Water (filtered) (thanda paani)
- 1 cup Milk (low-fat or toned) (doodh; can use cow's milk or plant-based)
- 2 tsp Jaggery powder (gur; or use honey/stevia for a healthier option)
- as needed Ice cubes (baraf)
- 1/4 tsp Green cardamom (elaichi) powder (for subtle aroma) - optional
- 1/8 tsp Cinnamon (dalchini) powder (optional, for a festive twist) - optional
- 1 pinch Pinch of salt (enhances flavor) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Add freshly ground coffee to a glass jar or matka. Pour in 2 cups cold filtered water. Stir gently to mix.
2 minutes
Use coarser grind for best extraction and no bitterness.
- 2
Cover the jar and let it steep in the refrigerator for 12-16 hours (overnight) for maximum flavor.
12 hours
Longer steeping gives a stronger, smoother brew.
- 3
Strain the cold brew concentrate using a fine muslin cloth, coffee filter, or channi into a clean vessel.
5 minutes
Ensure no coffee grounds remain for a silky texture.
- 4
In a glass, add ice cubes as per preference. Pour 1/2 cup cold brew concentrate over the ice.
1 minute
Chilled glass enhances the cold effect.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This beverage is health-conscious because it uses natural sweeteners, low-fat milk, and avoids artificial creamers. The slow steeping process maximizes coffee’s natural antioxidants and reduces the need for added sugar. Using jaggery instead of refined sugar provides a slower energy release, which helps maintain blood sugar levels. It’s naturally vegetarian and can be easily adapted for vegan diets, making it inclusive and wholesome for most people.
Cold Brew with Milk is a healthier alternative to sugar-laden packaged cold coffees. It is lower in acidity and gentle on digestion compared to hot brewed coffee. Using low-fat or plant-based milk reduces saturated fat content, while jaggery adds trace minerals like iron and potassium. Coffee provides antioxidants, and adding spices like elaichi or dalchini lends additional micronutrients. Each glass offers a balance of protein (from milk), complex carbohydrates (from jaggery), and minimal fat, making it suitable for energy without excess calories.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use coarsely ground, freshly roasted coffee beans for best results.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust milk-to-coffee ratio according to your taste preference.
- 💡Tip 3: Add a hint of elaichi or cinnamon for a unique Indian twist.
Storage & Serving
Store cold brew concentrate in a glass bottle in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Always mix with fresh milk and ice before serving. Do not store prepared Cold Brew with Milk for more than 1 day.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 40.0 kcal |
