Sindhi Thadal

The Sindhi summer cold drink — blanched almonds, poppy seeds, fennel seeds, dried rose petals, cardamom, and black pepper ground with water into a smooth paste, strained, diluted with cold milk or water, and sweetened with sugar to produce a thick, cooling, fragrantly spiced drink. The thadal is Sindhi Holi's most iconic preparation; made in vast quantities and offered to guests and neighbours throughout the festival. The combination of almonds and poppy seeds creates a rich, slightly opiate mildness that is the thadal's defining quality; the poppy seeds are not intoxicating at culinary quantities but contribute a particular flavour depth. Served chilled in earthen cups, a glass of thadal is considered the most civilised Sindhi act of hospitality.