How to make bhang in Holi - Holi, the festival of colors, is one of the most vibrant celebrations in India, and no Holi party is complete without a glass of bhang - a traditional drink made from cannabis leaves that adds an extra dose of fun and joy to the festivities.
How to Make Bhang in Holi: A Complete Guide
If you're curious about how to make bhang for Holi, this guide will walk you through the process, its ingredients, and safety tips to ensure a memorable Holi celebration.
What is Bhang and Why is it Popular on Holi?
Bhang is a drink made from the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant, typically consumed during festivals like Holi and Maha Shivaratri. It has a long history in Indian culture, often associated with Lord Shiva and his devotees.
Bhang has a calming and euphoric effect, which is why it is often enjoyed in a festive setting, enhancing the celebratory mood. However, it's important to consume it responsibly.
Ingredients Needed for Making Bhang in Holi
Before you begin making bhang, ensure you have the following ingredients:
- Bhang leaves or powder – These are the key ingredients that provide the drink with its intoxicating effect.
- Milk (Full cream or chilled) – Milk adds a creamy texture to the drink.
- Sugar – To balance out the bitterness of the cannabis leaves.
- Nuts (Almonds, cashews) – These are optional but add a rich, nutty flavor to the drink.
- Spices – Cardamom, cloves, black pepper, and saffron are commonly added for flavor.
- Rose Water or Kesar (Saffron) – For fragrance and additional flavor.
- Ice cubes – Optional, but perfect for cooling the drink.
- Water – For preparing the bhang paste.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bhang for Holi
Step 1: Prepare the Bhang Paste
- Begin by grinding bhang leaves or bhang powder into a fine paste using a stone mortar and pestle or a grinder. If using fresh leaves, you may need to add a little water to make the paste smoother.
Step 2: Boil Milk and Water
- In a saucepan, add milk and a little water (around 1 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of water for one serving).
- Heat the mixture on medium flame until it begins to boil. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn't burn.
Step 3: Add the Bhang Paste
- Once the milk mixture starts boiling, reduce the heat to low.
- Add the bhang paste to the boiling milk and water mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure that the paste dissolves completely and infuses into the milk.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Spices
- Add sugar to taste, typically around 2-3 teaspoons for one serving.
- Now add cardamom powder, a pinch of saffron or rose water, and a clove for added flavor. You can also include a bit of black pepper to enhance the effect.
Step 5: Simmer and Stir
- Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes on low heat. Stir the bhang mixture occasionally to ensure the milk doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan.
Step 6: Strain and Cool
- After simmering, strain the mixture through a fine mesh or cheesecloth into a clean bowl to remove any plant residue.
- Let the bhang drink cool down before serving. You can place the strained bhang in the fridge to chill for a more refreshing experience.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Once cooled, pour the bhang into glasses. You can garnish the drink with crushed almonds or cashews for a richer taste. Adding a few ice cubes can make it more refreshing.
Tips for Making the Perfect Bhang
- Start with small quantities: If you or your guests are new to bhang, it’s wise to start with a small amount to gauge its effects.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh milk and bhang leaves yield the best flavors and effects.
- Chill the drink: Bhang is best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it before serving for a refreshing twist.
- Don’t overdo it: Bhang can be quite strong, so it’s important to drink it in moderation.
Benefits of Bhang (When Consumed Responsibly)
- Relieves Stress: Bhang has calming properties that can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Boosts Energy: Many people feel energized and more joyful after drinking bhang, making it ideal for celebrations like Holi.
- Promotes Digestion: Some traditional uses of bhang include aiding digestion and relieving stomach discomfort.
- Enhances Creativity: Bhang is believed to enhance the creative mind, making it perfect for artistic celebrations.
Precautions When Consuming Bhang
- Know Your Limit: Always drink bhang in moderation. Overconsumption can lead to adverse effects such as dizziness or nausea.
- Avoid Mixing with Alcohol: Mixing bhang with alcohol can lead to stronger effects and might be harmful.
- Legal Restrictions: Ensure that you are consuming bhang legally in your area, as its use may be restricted in certain places.
Conclusion
Making bhang for Holi is a fun and traditional way to celebrate the festival of colors. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can prepare a refreshing and flavorful drink that will bring a smile to everyone’s face. However, always remember to consume bhang responsibly and ensure that everyone is aware of its effects before indulging. Enjoy a vibrant, fun-filled Holi with this delightful drink, and make the celebration even more special!
