Thandai Donuts to Celebrate Maha Shivratri with a Deliciously Unique Twist

Thandai Donuts to Celebrate Maha Shivratri with a Deliciously Unique TwistMaha Shivratri is a great day in Hinduism, when the devotees worship Lord Shiva. It is celebrated with intense devotion and falls on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the months of Phalguna or Magha, that is, either in February or March. It marks the convergence of spiritual practices since devotees fast, pray, and meditate to honor the destroyer and regenerating force in the Hindu Trimurti, Lord Shiva. There is a common practice of all regions coming together as each region celebrates differently, yet their love for Shiva unites them all.

Maha Shivratri, therefore, remains focused on the sattvic food which should be pure and nourishing. Amongst so many customs which are attached to the festival, one of the most cherished rituals is that of preparing and sipping Thandai-a refreshing drink made full of aromatic spices, nuts, and milk. Traditionally, Thandai has been savored for its refreshing quality. This year, why not take this festive drink and turn it into an innovative treat? Make Thandai donuts, where the festive drink meets soft, pillowy dough. Perfect for the divine occasion, these donuts bring a new twist to a traditional favorite while staying true to the flavors of Maha Shivratri.

Why Thandai has a Special Importance on Maha Shivratri

Thandai is much more than a celebratory drink; it carries deep-rooted cultural and spiritual importance during Maha Shivratri. Traditionally consumed to keep devotees energized throughout their fast, Thandai combines ingredients like almonds, fennel seeds, rose petals, saffron, and cardamom—each contributing to the refreshing nature of the drink.

It is also considered to be one of the favorite drinks of Lord Shiva, prepared frequently as an offering in his name. The drink is relished for its cooling properties that makes it apt for the occasion, more so since it provides nourishment while one is fasting. We could, therefore, create a new, enthralling form by injecting the flavors of Thandai into donuts and rejoice the essence of this holy drink.

Recipe for Thandai Donuts to Enjoy Maha Shivratri with a Deliciously Unique Twist

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp ground fennel seeds
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp yogurt
• 1/4 cup melted ghee or oil (for vegan use oil)
• 2 tbsp thandai
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Oil for frying

For the glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp thandai syrup
• Crushed pistachios and almonds (for garnish)

Method:

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cardamom, fennel, black pepper, and salt.
2. Add milk, yogurt, melted ghee, thandai syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix to form a smooth dough.
3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness and cut out donut shapes.
4. Heat oil in a pan. Fry donuts until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Let the donuts cool completely. Dip the cooled donuts into the Thandai glaze and let the excess drip off. Place the donuts back on the wire rack and garnish with chopped pistachios and a few extra saffron strands. Let the glaze set before serving.

Tips to Perfect Thandai Donuts to Celebrate Maha Shivratri with a Deliciously Unique Twist

Use Fresh Thandai Powder

Always best fresh Thandai powder for preparation. This will give your donuts more dimension and flavor to the original recipe. The batter also contains a perfectly spiced combination of almonds, fennel, cardamom, and saffron. This ensures capturing the very taste of the age-old drink, Thandai.

Don't Overmix Batter

Mixing the wet and dry ingredients requires only gentle stirring in order not to crush the donuts too much. Overmixing will result in a dense donut. The secret to a perfect donut lies in the lightness of the batter.

Try adjusting the thickness of the Glaze

The glaze should be smooth but not too runny. If it’s too thick, add a little extra milk; if it’s too thin, increase the powdered sugar. Adjust the consistency to your liking to ensure it coats the donuts well without dripping too much.

Use Yogurt for Tenderness

Yogurt will make the donuts moist and tender. The yogurt also provides a tangy taste that complements the sweetness of the glaze. Be sure to use full-fat yogurt to get the desired richness.

Serve Warm or at Room Temperature

These Thandai donuts taste the best when fresh and served either just warm or at room temperature. It lets the glaze set nicely and lets out the complete fragrance of spices.