In many households across the globe, particularly in some Indian cultures, the nightly ritual of consuming a warm glass of Kesar milk is more than just a bedtime tradition. Kesar, more commonly known in English as saffron, is a spice renowned for its distinctive aroma, flavour, and array of health benefits. When infused with milk, it creates a potent and nourishing beverage that is especially beneficial for children. This article delves into the reasons why a nightly glass of Kesar milk can be a valuable addition to a child’s diet.
Nutritional Profile of Kesar Milk
Kesar milk is a concoction of milk, saffron strands, and usually a sweetener like sugar or honey. Often, it is also enriched with other spices like cardamom or a pinch of turmeric, and sometimes nuts and dried fruits for added nutrition. The combination of these ingredients results in a drink that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Saffron itself is a treasure trove of healthful compounds. It contains more than 150 volatile and aroma-yielding compounds, primarily antioxidants, which play a crucial role in protecting the body from oxidative stress and free radicals. These antioxidants, such as crocin, crocetin, safranal, and kaempferol, are responsible for many of the health benefits attributed to saffron.
Milk, the primary component, is a rich source of calcium, essential for the development and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth in children. It also provides a host of other nutrients, including vitamin D, protein, and potassium. The combination of these ingredients in Kesar milk makes it a powerhouse of nutrition.
Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Giving Your Child Non-Dairy Milk
Health Benefits of Kesar Milk for Children
Here are some health benefits of kesar milk for children:
- Enhances Brain Health and Memory: Studies have shown that saffron contains certain compounds that may enhance memory and cognitive processing. This can be particularly beneficial for children, aiding in their cognitive development, enhancing concentration, and improving learning capabilities.
- Promotes Sound Sleep: The ritual of drinking warm milk before bed has long been associated with promoting better sleep. The addition of Kesar, known for its mild sedative properties, can help improve sleep quality in children, ensuring they get the rest they need for growth and development.
- Supports Digestive Health: Kesar milk is also known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It can help soothe the stomach, reduce instances of indigestion, and promote a healthy digestive system in children.
- Boosts Immune System: The antioxidants in Kesar, along with the nutrients in milk, play a significant role in strengthening the immune system. A strong immune system is vital for children to ward off illnesses and infections.
- Improves Skin Health: Kesar is renowned for its skin-enhancing properties. Regular consumption of Kesar milk can lead to a healthier complexion and can be particularly beneficial in dealing with skin issues common in childhood, such as eczema or dry skin.
- Promotes Healthy Growth: The combination of proteins, vitamins, and minerals in Kesar milk makes it an ideal drink for supporting the overall physical growth and development of children.
Cultural and Emotional Significance
Beyond its health benefits, the practice of drinking Kesar milk carries cultural and emotional significance. In many families, it represents a moment of bonding between parents and children, a time for quiet conversation, or sharing stories from the day. This nightly ritual can create a sense of security and comfort for children, contributing to their emotional well-being.
Also Read: Why is World Milk Day celebrated?
Kesar Milk Recipes for Children
Here are a few Kesar (saffron) milk recipes that are not only nutritious but also delicious, perfect for kids to enjoy:
1. Classic Kesar Milk
Ingredients
- 2 cups of milk
- A pinch of saffron strands
- 2 teaspoons of sugar or honey
- A few cardamom pods, crushed
- Optional: a few almonds or pistachios, finely chopped
Instructions
- Soak the saffron strands in 2 tablespoons of warm milk for about 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat.
- Add the crushed cardamom and the saffron along with its soaking milk.
- Stir in the sugar or honey.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavours to infuse.
- Garnish with chopped nuts, if using.
- Serve warm.
2. Kesar Milk with Turmeric (Golden Milk)
Ingredients
- 2 cups of milk
- A pinch of saffron strands
- ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons of honey or sugar
- A pinch of black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Soak saffron strands in a small amount of warm milk.
- Heat the milk in a pan and add turmeric powder.
- Add the saffron with its soaking milk and a pinch of black pepper.
- Sweeten with honey or sugar.
- Simmer for a few minutes.
- Serve warm, ideally before bedtime.
3. Kesar Milk with Dates
Ingredients
- 2 cups of milk
- A pinch of saffron strands
- 4-5 dates, pitted and chopped
- 2 teaspoons of honey (optional)
Instructions
- Soak saffron in warm milk.
- Heat the milk and add the chopped dates.
- Add the saffron and its milk.
- Simmer until the dates are soft.
- Blend the mixture for a smoother texture (optional).
- Sweeten with honey if desired.
- Serve warm.
4. Creamy Kesar Milkshake
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cold milk
- A pinch of saffron strands
- 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
- Sugar or honey, to taste
Instructions
- Soak saffron in a tablespoon of warm milk.
- In a blender, combine cold milk, ice cream, and saffron milk.
- Add sugar or honey to taste.
- Blend until smooth.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
5. Kesar Milk with Cinnamon and Cloves
Ingredients
- 2 cups of milk
- A pinch of saffron strands
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 2 teaspoons of sugar or honey
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Soak the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk for about 10 minutes.
- In a saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cinnamon stick and cloves to the milk.
- Stir in the saffron along with its soaking milk.
- Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavours can infuse.
- Add sugar or honey for sweetness, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
- Strain the milk to remove the cinnamon stick and cloves.
- Serve the Kesar milk warm, perfect for a comforting evening drink.
Also Read: Advantages Of Turmeric Milk And Potential Side Effects For Children
Each of these recipes can be adjusted according to personal taste preferences. Kesar milk is not only a delightful beverage but also offers numerous health benefits, making it a great addition to your child’s diet. For more such articles on Nutrition, read EuroSchool blogs.
