Pandan Drink: A Simple Recipe with Big Health Benefits

Enjoy a refreshing pandan drink with this simple recipe from HuaHinServices! A delightful treat to beat the heat in Hua Hin

Pandan Drink: A Simple Recipe with Big Health Benefits

Pandan leaves, known as ใบเตย (Bai Toey) in Thai, are widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. They have a sweet, fragrant aroma and are used in drinks, desserts, and savory dishes. Here’s a guide to preparing Pandan leaf drink and its health benefits:


How to Make Pandan Leaf Drink (น้ำใบเตย)

A simple and refreshing Thai-style drink:

Ingredients:

  • 5-6 fresh pandan leaves (washed and tied into a knot)
  • 4 cups water
  • Sugar (palm sugar, coconut sugar, or white sugar – adjust to taste)
  • A pinch of salt (enhances flavor)
  • Ice cubes

Method:

  1. Boil the Leaves – Bring water to a boil, add pandan leaves, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the water turns light green and fragrant.
  2. Sweeten – Add sugar (start with 2-3 tbsp) and a pinch of salt. Stir until dissolved.
  3. Cool & Serve – Remove leaves, let the drink cool, then serve chilled with ice.

Variations:

  • Pandan Latte – Mix with coconut milk > Making coconut milk at home for a creamy version.
  • Pandan Lemonade – Add lime juice for a tangy twist.
  • Pandan & Butterfly Pea Flower – Combine with blue pea flower for a colorful layered drink.

Health Benefits of Pandan Leaves

Pandan is not just aromatic but also offers several health benefits:

  1. Rich in Antioxidants – Helps fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
  2. Natural Detoxifier – Supports liver health and aids in flushing out toxins.
  3. Lowers Blood Sugar – Some studies suggest it may help regulate glucose levels.
  4. Relieves Stress & Anxiety – Its soothing aroma has a calming effect.
  5. Aids Digestion – May help with bloating and indigestion.
  6. Pain Relief – Traditionally used to alleviate headaches and arthritis pain.
  7. Good for Skin & Hair – Applied topically, it may help with dandruff and skin irritation.

⚠️ Note: While generally safe, excessive consumption may cause mild laxative effects.


Pandan in Thai Culture

  • Used in desserts like khanom chan (layered pudding) and sticky rice.
  • Often paired with coconut milk for a classic Thai flavor.
  • Believed in traditional medicine to have cooling properties.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Some plant-based Thai dishes that feature ginger (ขิง - khing)

Vegan Thai Fingerroot & Fresh Jackfruit Yellow Curry

Kaeng Dok Khae (แกงดอกแค) - Spicy Agasta Flower Curry