Carla Cometto
Summer is here, and so is the heat. Finding something refreshing to keep you cool and nourished can make the season more enjoyable. If fruit water or soda isn’t your thing, you might want to try lassi, a thirst-quenching treat from the East.
If you’ve ever been to an Indian restaurant, you might’ve noticed “lassi” in the beverage section of the menu. While many compare it to a milkshake, lassi is better! Not only does it have a satisfying thickness, but it also has many health benefits. It’s also super easy to make at home!
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What Exactly Is Lassi?
Lassi is a fermented drink that originated centuries ago in Punjabi, a region in Northern India. It’s since become a household staple across the country. Traditionally, it’s made with yogurt, dahi (curd) or buttermilk, then mixed with milk, fruits, and spices. It can be sweet or salty, and the combinations are endless.
Given the intense heat experienced every year across the country, lassi is particularly popular during the summer as its creamy consistency and refreshing taste make it the perfect way to survive the scorching hot temperatures.
What Are the Health Benefits of Lassi?
Another major reason lassi gets so much praise is the number of health benefits associated with its ingredients, including the following:
- Probiotics: These friendly bacteria are present in yogurt and help improve digestive health.
- Calcium and potassium: Calcium promotes bone health, while potassium supports cardiovascular and kidney health.
- Vitamins B and D: B-complex vitamins are necessary to maintain good energy levels and brain function. Vitamin D helps improve moods, immune function, and calcium absorption, among other things.
- Lactic acid: The fermentation process of milk breaks down lactose into lactic acid, which means people with lactose intolerance can digest it easily without effects.
Lassi is an excellent alternative to the typical fruit waters, iced coffees, and sodas we tend to drink to survive the summer heat. It’s tasty, comes in different flavors, and is good for you. What else could you possibly ask for in a drink?
Now that you know what lassi actually is, it’s time to try it! It’s quick and easy to make yourself because it doesn’t require a ton of ingredients. Check out some of our fave recipes below.
Traditional Indian Lassi
This is a basic recipe for the standard version of lassi. It’s very straightforward and easy to adjust to your preferences.
To make it thicker, just add more yogurt or milk instead of water. To make it more bitter add less sugar or more salt.
Get the Recipe: Tea for Turmeric
Mango Lassi
The most popular version of a sweet lassi is mango. Between the cool creaminess and the perfect amount of sweetness, it hits all the right spots. Kids especially love it.
So, get your hands on some mangos and get chopping!
Get the Recipe: Simply Recipes
Masala Lassi
Not a fan of sweet drinks? Then masala lassi is for you. All the Indian spices might cause you to reconsider at first, but you’ll be surprised at how invigorating this drink is.
It’s definitely going to be a whole new experience for your taste buds!
Get the Recipe: Flavours Treat
Saffron Lassi
If you’re looking for something that’s a bit more delicate on the palate, why not try this elegant saffron lassi? Not only is it sweet and tasty, but it’s also the perfect beverage to share with your friends on a warm, relaxed afternoon.
Get the Recipe: Food & Wine
Lassi is the solution to all your summer needs. It can cool you down, delight your taste buds, and keep you both healthy and hydrated. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s also super easy to make!
