Indian Lassi Recipe

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Ingredients

• 1 cups plain yogurt
• 1 cups ice water
• 6 cubes ice, crushed
• 2 teaspoons white sugar
• 1 pinch salt

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients in one place.
2. Fill 6 tall glasses with ice cubes.
3. Place the yogurt, ice water, crushed ice, sugar, and salt into a blender.
4. Blend the mixture until frothy and smooth.
5. Pour the blended drink over the ice cubes in the glasses.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Tip

If you prefer a savory lassi, you can substitute the 2 teaspoons of sugar with teaspoon of salt.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 50
• Total Fat: 1g (1% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 1g (4% DV)
• Cholesterol: 4mg (1% DV)
• Sodium: 51mg (2% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 6g (2% DV)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 4g (8% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 131mg (10% DV)
• Iron: 0mg (1% DV)
• Potassium: 168mg (4% DV)

Note: The percent daily values (%DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Recipe by: Simmi G

Prep time: 15 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• 1 cups plain yogurt
• 1 cups ice water
• 6 cubes ice, crushed
• 2 teaspoons white sugar
• 1 pinch salt

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. Fill 6 tall glasses with ice cubes.
3. Place yogurt, ice water, crushed ice, sugar, and salt in a blender; blend until frothy.
4. Pour over ice cubes in the glasses to serve.

History and Origin of Lassi

Lassi is a traditional drink that originated in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the regions of Punjab. Known for its refreshing qualities, this drink has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed that lassi was initially created by the Indus Valley civilization, who would ferment yogurt and combine it with water for hydration during the hot climate. Over time, lassi evolved, with different variations being introduced across India, often flavored with fruits, spices, and herbs. Lassi became especially popular in the Punjab region, where it is often served with meals to aid digestion.

Regional Variations

In India, the basic lassi is a blend of yogurt, water, sugar, and sometimes salt. However, regional variations exist. In the northern states of India, particularly in Punjab, lassi is served as a thick, creamy drink with an almost custard-like consistency. Sweet lassis may include fruits such as mangoes or bananas, while savory lassis are made with salt, cumin, and sometimes garlic. In Rajasthan, buttermilk-based lassis are commonly consumed to cool down the body after a hot day in the desert.

Difference from Similar Drinks

While lassi is often compared to smoothies or milkshakes, it is distinct due to its use of yogurt as the primary base. Unlike a milkshake, which is usually made with ice cream or milk, lassi is lighter, often more tangy, and can have a thicker or thinner consistency depending on the region and personal preference. Additionally, a milkshake is typically sweeter, whereas lassi can be either sweet or savory, with the savory version being much less common in Western cultures.

Where Is Lassi Typically Served?

Lassi is commonly served in Indian restaurants, particularly in the northern parts of India. It is often enjoyed as a beverage to accompany a hearty meal, especially during lunch or dinner. Lassi is also a popular choice during festivals and special occasions, where it is often served in traditional clay cups or tall glasses. In rural areas, it is sometimes consumed as a refreshing drink after working in the fields to help cool the body and rehydrate.

Interesting Facts

• Lassi is believed to aid digestion due to its probiotic content from yogurt.
• The drink has been celebrated in literature, with references to it appearing in Indian poetry and cultural texts dating back centuries.
• The sweet mango lassi, often found in Indian restaurants worldwide, is a variation made with pureed mango and sometimes flavored with cardamom or saffron.
• Lassi can be both a cooling drink in the hot Indian summer and a remedy for stomach ailments, thanks to its soothing properties.
• Traditionally, lassi is served in copper or clay cups, which are believed to enhance the taste and cooling effect of the drink.

Conclusion

Lassi is much more than just a drink; it is an integral part of Indian culinary culture, with deep historical roots and regional significance. Whether enjoyed as a simple yogurt-based drink or a luxurious fruit-filled concoction, lassi brings refreshment and flavor to any occasion. Its versatility, from savory to sweet, makes it a timeless favorite in India and beyond.

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