Indian Lassi Recipe
Lassi is a traditional yoghurt-based drink that originated in India and is now enjoyed by people all over the world. This delicious drink is made with yoghurt, water, and various spices and can be enjoyed either as sweet or savoury. In this article, we will be sharing a recipe for a classic sweet Indian lassi, along with some modern twists that you can try to make your lassi even more delicious.
What is Lassi?
Lassi is a traditional Indian yoghurt-based drink that is made with yoghurt, water, and various spices. The word "lassi" is derived from the Hindi word "lass," which means "to lick." This is because lassi is typically served in a tall glass and is meant to be licked or sipped slowly.
Lassi is typically made with plain yoghurt, but it can also be made with flavoured yoghurt. The yoghurt is then mixed with water and spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, or saffron. Some lassi recipes also call for the addition of sugar or honey to sweeten the drink.
Classic Indian Lassi Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yoghurt
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the yoghurt, water, and sugar or honey (if using).
- Add the ground cardamom (if using) and blend until smooth.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more sugar or honey, if desired.
- Serve the lassi chilled in a tall glass.
This classic Indian lassi recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this traditional yoghurt drink. The addition of cardamom gives the lassi a unique and delicious flavour.
Modern Twists on the Classic Lassi Recipe
While the classic Indian lassi recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to add a modern twist to this traditional drink. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
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Mango Lassi: Add 1 cup of a diced ripe mango to the blender along with the yoghurt, water, and sugar or honey. This will give the lassi a sweet and tropical twist.
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Strawberry Lassi: Replace the mango with 1 cup of diced fresh strawberries for a delicious strawberry lassi.
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Banana Lassi: Add 1 ripe banana to the blender along with the yoghurt, water, and sugar or honey. This will give the lassi a creamy and sweet flavour.
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Spiced Lassi: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the blender along with the yoghurt, water, and sugar or honey. This will give the lassi a warm and spicy flavour.
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Savoury Lassi: Omit the sugar or honey and add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin and a pinch of salt to the blender along with the yoghurt and water. This will give the lassi a savoury and tangy flavour.
By experimenting with different ingredients and spices, you can create a wide variety of delicious lassi recipes.
The Health Benefits of Lassi
Not only is lassi delicious, but it also offers a variety of health benefits. As lassi is made with yoghurt, it is a great source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Additionally, yoghurt is also a good source of protein, which helps to repair and build muscle tissue.
Yoghurt is also rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut. These bacteria help to maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria and can aid in digestion. Consuming yoghurt, such as in a lassi, can also help to boost the immune system and may even reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
How to Serve Lassi
Lassi is typically served chilled in a tall glass. It can be enjoyed as a refreshing drink on its own or as an accompaniment to a meal. Lassi can also be used as a base for smoothies or as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
How to Store Lassi
Homemade lassi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it is important to note that homemade lassi may separate if stored for too long. To prevent this, be sure to give the lassi a good shake or stir before serving.
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