Indian Yoghurt Drinks (Three Ways Lassi)

500g natural set yoghurt
1 cup ice
150ml water

Mango Lassi

1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
1-2 tablespoons pandan syrup or sugar
Few strands saffron, for garnish

Salty Lassi

1 teaspoon roasted cumin seeds, ground
½ teaspoon salt
Few fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Masala Lassi

Pinch ground black pepper
Pinch ground cardamom
Pinch ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon palm sugar

PREPARATION

COOKING

1. Add natural yoghurt, ice and water to a blender as the base for all three lassi drinks.
2. For the mango lassi, add diced mango, ground cardamom and pandan syrup or sugar to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, then pour into a chilled glass and garnish with a few strands of saffron.
4. For the salty lassi, add yoghurt, ice, ground roasted cumin and salt to the blender.
5. Blend until smooth and lightly frothy.
6. Pour into a glass and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
7. For the masala lassi, add yoghurt, ice, black pepper, cardamom, nutmeg and palm sugar to the blender.
8. Blend until well combined and lightly frothy.
9. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice if needed.
10. Pour into a chilled glass.
11. Serve immediately while cold and refreshing.
12. Enjoy the three variations as a cooling drink on warm days.

School of Wok Tips

• Use thick natural yoghurt for the creamiest texture.
• Adjust water depending on how thick or drinkable you prefer your lassi.
• Roasting cumin seeds before grinding gives a deeper aroma for salty lassi.
• Always serve lassi well chilled for the best refreshing effect.

FAQs

What is lassi?
Lassi is a traditional Indian yoghurt based drink that can be sweet, savoury or spiced.

Can I make lassi without a blender?
Yes, you can whisk the ingredients vigorously or shake them in a jar until smooth.

Is lassi served as a drink or dessert?
Both. Sweet lassi is often served like a dessert drink, while salty versions accompany meals.