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Copyright © 2025 Foodies Only
Copyright © 2025 Foodies Only
7 min
09/01/2026
This Vasant Panchami, it’s time to reset, recharge, and refocus. Saffron, or kesar, is all the rage in health circles this year due to its mood-boosting and purifying qualities, which make it an ideal component of seasonal cleanses. Let’s explore some delicious and purposeful ways to renew your mind and body, from golden cocktails to light meals steeped in saffron.
The festival of Vasant Panchami heralds the coming of spring, representing the comforting return of summer. At the beginning of spring, the body tries to shake off the lethargy that comes with winter by releasing the kapha hormone. The ideal spice to help bring about this change is saffron, also known as kesar. Not only is it a luxurious spice, but it is also a powerful ingredient that can help purge toxins from the blood and provide a natural “sunshine” effect for stressed nerves. Using kesar as a cleansing drink or adding it to a light meal can truly reset your metabolism and improve your mood.
Let’s step out of our comfort zones and explore kesar-infused drinks that are both visually and nutritionally sound:
Sleep is when detoxification takes place. The perfect way to unwind at the end of the day is with a mug of warm "Golden Milk" simmered with some almond or oat milk, a few strands of Kesar, and a cardamom pod. This rendition ought to be lighter and devoid of sugar, in contrast to the heavier winter beverages. You will feel revitalised and "light" upon waking up on Vasant Panchami since saffron has gentle sedative qualities that aid in regulating your circadian cycle.
You can make an electrolyte-rich, naturally sweetened drink at home by adding a few strands of saffron to fresh coconut water. The flavour and colour will fully permeate after sitting for 10 to 15 minutes. Hydrating and mineral-rich, this drink is perfect for any time of day.
This is another fragrant beverage that will set the tone for a wonderful morning. In a glass of warm water, soak some saffron threads over the night. Toss in some mint leaves and a squirt of lemon first thing in the morning. With its beautiful golden colour, the water provides antioxidants, a subtle mood boost, and aids in liver detoxification.
Want something sweet and sour? Add two or three strands of saffron to bloom in a tablespoon of boiling water. With lemon juice, honey (or agave syrup), and a pinch of roasted cumin powder, the end product will be a vitamin C-rich, hydrating beverage that also helps strengthen your immune system.
The transition from rich, heavy winter meals to lighter, more nutritious spring diets is ideal for a spring cleanse.
This light quinoa salad can be topped with shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and fresh coriander. Give it an enticing yellow-coloured dressing made with saffron (soaked in a tablespoon of warm water), fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and a hint of honey. This mood-lifting salad is gluten-free and packed with fibre and protein.
Traditional brown rice, or basmati, is cooked with a bay leaf and a few strands of saffron soaked in water. You can fold in cooked peas and roasted nuts (almonds, cashews) to make a refreshing and filling spring fasting meal.
This easy-to-make recipe is made by layering a pile of saffron-infused granola, thick yoghurt, chopped fruits (such as papaya, banana, or pomegranate), and honey. Yoghurt promotes digestive health, while saffron brings warmth and mood-lifting qualities. This can be enjoyed as a breakfast or mid-morning snack packed with probiotics. For added texture and fibre, try topping it with nuts or seeds.
Saffron is a multi-purpose spice that has several health benefits, including calming the nerves, easing digestion, and boosting antioxidant levels. In the spirit of Vasant Panchami, let saffron lead you into a more joyous, lighter, and more radiant spring. Indulge in a golden drink first thing in the morning or make a saffron rice bowl for a family meal, and you’ll be radiating beauty from the inside out.
