Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fresh, chilled milk
- 1 tablespoon of yogurt (curd)
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
- A few drops of rose water (optional)
- Freshly washed and dried basil leaves (tulsi) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Gather Your Ingredients: Ensure you have all the ingredients ready before you begin.
2. Chilling the Milk: Start with chilled milk to make the Charnamrit. You can refrigerate it for a while or use pre-chilled milk.
3. Adding Yogurt: In a clean and dry bowl, add one tablespoon of yogurt (curd). Make sure the yogurt is fresh and not sour.
4. Mixing Yogurt and Milk: Gradually pour the chilled milk over the yogurt. Use a gentle and slow pouring motion to mix them together. This mixture is known as "Dahi" and forms the base of Charnamrit.
5. Sweetening with Honey: Add two tablespoons of honey to the Dahi mixture. Honey adds sweetness to Charnamrit and enhances its flavor. Adjust the amount of honey to your taste preference.
6. Cardamom Flavor: Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder into the mixture. Cardamom imparts a delightful aroma and flavor to Charnamrit.
7. Optional Flavor Enhancements: You can further enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of saffron strands and a few drops of rose water. These ingredients are optional but can add a fragrant and exotic touch to the Charnamrit.
8. Mix Thoroughly: Gently mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Ensure that the honey, cardamom, and any optional flavorings are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
9. Garnish with Basil Leaves: Wash and dry fresh basil leaves (tulsi). Place a few leaves on top of the Charnamrit for a traditional and aromatic garnish.
10. Serving: Charnamrit is best served fresh and chilled. It is often used as an offering in Janmashtami celebrations and can be distributed as prasad (sacred food).
11. Storage: If you have any leftover Charnamrit, you can store it in the refrigerator for a short time. However, it is best when consumed soon after preparation.
Charnamrit is not only a sacred offering in Hindu rituals but also a delightful and refreshing drink. Its creamy texture and sweet, fragrant flavors make it a favorite among devotees and celebrants of Janmashtami. Whether you're preparing it for a religious ceremony or to enjoy as a sweet and nourishing beverage, Charnamrit is a cherished part of Indian traditions.
