Chhas | Masala Buttermilk

Chhas Recipe | Gujarati Masala Buttermilk (Cooling Summer Drink)

Learn how to make traditional Gujarati Chhas (Masala Buttermilk) at home. A healthy, cooling Indian drink made with curd, spices, and herbs. Perfect for summers.

Introduction

Chhas, also known as Masala Buttermilk, is a refreshing Indian drink made from curd and water, seasoned lightly with spices and herbs. It is especially popular in Gujarati homes and is often enjoyed after meals. Chhas is light on the stomach, cooling in nature, and very easy to prepare. A glass of fresh chhas can instantly make you feel relaxed and refreshed, especially during hot weather.

Traditional & Regional Value of Chhas

Chhas has been part of Indian food culture for centuries. In Gujarat and Rajasthan, it is commonly served with lunch, especially with rotli, shaak, and khichdi. Traditionally, chhas was churned by hand using a wooden whisk after removing butter from curd. The remaining liquid was seasoned simply and consumed for digestion.

In many villages, offering chhas to guests is considered a sign of hospitality and care.

Is Chhas Healthy?

Yes, chhas is one of the healthiest natural drinks. It is low in calories and rich in probiotics.

• Improves digestion and gut health
• Cooling effect on the body
• Rich in calcium and probiotics
• Helps prevent dehydration
• Light and suitable for daily consumption

Chhas is especially beneficial during summers and after heavy meals.

Recipe Key Ingredients & Steps (Quick Summary)

Key Ingredients

• Fresh curd (yogurt)
• Water
• Roasted cumin powder
• Green chilli (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves
• Ginger (optional)
• Salt or black salt

Quick Steps

• Add curd and water to a bowl or blender
• Churn or blend until smooth
• Add salt, cumin powder, and green chilli
• Mix well and adjust consistency
• Garnish with coriander leaves
• Serve chilled

Watch video and learn how to make

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chhas

• Use slightly sour curd for best taste
• Do not add too much water; keep it light but flavourful
• Roasted cumin powder enhances aroma
• Serve immediately for freshness
• Avoid reheating or storing for too long

Variations of Chhas

• Plain Chhas: Only curd, water, and salt
• Mint Chhas: With fresh mint leaves
• Ginger Chhas: Slightly spicy and warming
• Masala Chhas: With added spices like pepper
• Jeera Chhas: Strong cumin flavour

What Can Be Eaten Together or Served With Chhas?

• Gujarati thali meals
• Khichdi and kadhi
• Rotli and vegetable shaak
• Paratha or thepla
• Light summer lunches

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can chhas be consumed daily?

Yes, chhas is safe and healthy for daily consumption.

Is chhas good for digestion?

Yes, probiotics in chhas help improve digestion and gut health.

Can I drink chhas at night?

It is best consumed during the day or after meals.

Is chhas good for weight loss?

Yes, it is low in calories and keeps you full.

Can chhas be made without blender?

Yes, it can be hand-churned using a whisk or spoon.

chhas recipe, masala buttermilk, gujarati chhas, indian buttermilk, chaas drink, digestive summer drink, healthy buttermilk

Chhas

Chhas, also known as masala buttermilk, is a traditional Indian drink made by blending yogurt with water and a blend of spices and herbs. It is widely consumed across India, especially during summer, for its cooling, refreshing, and digestive properties. This spiced buttermilk is enjoyed for its tangy flavor and health benefits, often served chilled with a frothy layer of butterfat on top.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 Servings

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• Plain Yogurt Curd: 1.5 cups (360 ml)
• Chilled Water: 1 cup 240 ml
• Roasted Cumin Powder: 1 teaspoon 5 g
• Black Salt Kala Namak: ½ teaspoon (3 g)
• Fresh Mint Leaves: 1 tablespoon finely chopped (15 g)
• Fresh Coriander Leaves: 1 tablespoon finely chopped (15 g)
• Fresh Ginger: ½ inch 1.3 cm, grated or finely chopped
• Green Chili: 1 finely chopped (optional for spice)
• Ice Cubes: As needed optional

Equipment

• Blender or immersion blender
• Large mixing bowl (optional)
• Whisk (for manual mixing)
• Tall serving glasses

Method

 

1. In a blender, add 1.5 cups of chilled yogurt, 1 teaspoon of roasted cumin powder, ½ teaspoon of black salt, 1 tablespoon of chopped mint leaves, 1 tablespoon of chopped coriander leaves, grated ginger, and chopped green chili (if using).
2. Add 1 cup of chilled water to the blender. For a colder drink, add a few ice cubes at this stage.
3. Blend for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and frothy, with a visible layer of butterfat forming on top.
4. Pour the masala chaas into chilled glasses. Garnish with a few fresh mint or coriander leaves.
5. Serve immediately, ideally chilled, for the best refreshing experience.

Notes

Safety Notes:

Use fresh, unspoiled yogurt to ensure food safety. Avoid using yogurt past its expiration date.
If using raw ingredients like ginger and green chili, wash them thoroughly before use.
Substitutions:

Black salt can be replaced with regular salt, though the flavor profile will differ.
Fresh mint and coriander can be substituted with dried versions—use 1 teaspoon of dried mint and 1 teaspoon of dried coriander for every 1 tablespoon of fresh.
For a vegan version, ensure the yogurt is plant-based and the black salt is vegan-friendly.
Storage:

Store leftover masala chaas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavor and texture may degrade slightly over time, so it's best consumed fresh.
Pro Tips:

For a richer texture, use full-fat yogurt or add a small amount of cream before blending.
Chilling the blender jar and glasses beforehand enhances the drink’s refreshing quality.
Adjust the amount of green chili and ginger to suit your spice preference—start with less and add more as needed.