Lassi Recipe | Sweet & Salted Lassi (Traditional Indian Yogurt Drink)

Learn how to make traditional sweet and salted Lassi Recipe at home. A creamy, refreshing Indian yogurt drink perfect for summers and meals. Simple, healthy, and authentic.

Lassi Recipe (Sweet & Salted Lassi)

Introduction

Lassi is a classic Indian yogurt-based drink known for its creamy texture and refreshing taste. It is made by blending fresh curd with water or milk and lightly flavouring it. Lassi is enjoyed across India, especially during hot weather. Whether sweet or salted, a glass of lassi brings comfort, freshness, and satisfaction in every sip.

Traditional & Regional Value of Lassi

Lassi has strong roots in North Indian and Punjabi food culture. Traditionally, it was hand-churned using thick curd and served in earthen glasses. In Punjab, lassi is often thick and topped with a layer of malai or butter. Over time, sweet and salted versions became popular across India, including Gujarat, where it is enjoyed as a cooling drink. Lassi represents simplicity, nourishment, and the joy of homemade food.

Is Lassi Healthy?

Yes, lassi is healthy when prepared at home using fresh curd and natural ingredients.

• Rich in probiotics for gut health
• Provides calcium and protein
• Helps cool the body in summer
• Improves digestion
• Gives natural energy

Sweet lassi should be consumed in moderation due to sugar content, while salted lassi is lighter and more digestive.

Recipe Key Ingredients & Steps (Quick Summary)

Key Ingredients for Sweet Lassi

• Fresh thick curd
• Sugar or powdered jaggery
• Cardamom powder
• Cold water or milk
• Ice cubes (optional)

Watch video and learn how to make Lassi Recipe | Sweet & Salted Lassi

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Lassi

• Use fresh and thick curd for best taste
• Adjust sweetness or salt as per preference
• Do not over-dilute lassi
• Serve immediately for best texture
• Chill ingredients before blending

Variations of Lassi

• Mango Lassi: With fresh mango pulp
• Rose Lassi: Flavoured with rose syrup
• Masala Lassi: With spices like pepper
• Dry Fruit Lassi: With chopped nuts
• Butter Lassi: Topped with fresh malai

What Can Be Eaten Together or Served With Lassi?

• Paratha and stuffed rotis
• Spicy Indian meals
• Punjabi thali
• Lunch or brunch meals
• As a refreshing standalone drink

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between chhas and lassi?

Chhas is thinner and digestive, while lassi is thicker and creamier.

Can lassi be made without blender?

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

Is lassi good for digestion?

Yes, probiotics in curd support digestion.

Can diabetics drink lassi?

Salted lassi is a better option for diabetics.

How long can lassi be stored?

Lassi is best consumed fresh and should not be stored for long.

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Lassi

Lassi is a traditional Indian yogurt-based drink known for its refreshing, creamy texture and versatility in both sweet and savory forms. It is commonly enjoyed as a cooling beverage during hot weather and is popular across North India, especially in Punjab.

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Prep Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 8 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 1180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• Plain yogurt curd: 1½ to 2 cups (350–480 grams)
• Milk: ½ to ¾ cup 120–180 ml or water (adjust for consistency)
• Sugar: 3 to 4 tablespoons 36–50 grams, or to taste
• Cardamom powder: ¼ to ½ teaspoon 1–2.5 grams
• Saffron strands: 1 pinch about 5–6 strands, soaked in warm milk if using
• Rose water: ½ to 1 teaspoon optional
• Ice cubes: 4–6 optional, for extra chill
• Chopped nuts e.g., pistachios, almonds: 1 to 2 tablespoons (10–20 grams), for garnish

Equipment

• Blender or food processor (essential for smooth texture)
• Hand whisk or immersion blender (alternative for frothing)
• Mixing bowl (if not blending directly)
• Tall serving glasses

Method

 

1. Chill the yogurt and milk (or water) in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before use to ensure a cold drink.
2. If using saffron, soak 5–6 strands in 2 tablespoons of warm milk for 10 minutes to release color and flavor.
3. Add yogurt, milk (or water), sugar, cardamom powder, and rose water (if using) to a blender.
4. Blend on high speed for 2–3 minutes until the mixture is smooth, thick, and frothy on top.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency—add more sugar for sweetness, more milk/water for thinness, or ice for chill.
6. Pour into chilled serving glasses. If desired, top with a dollop of whipped cream, malai (thick cream), or a sprinkle of cardamom and chopped nuts.
7. Serve immediately, ideally chilled.

Notes

Safety Notes:

Use fresh, pasteurized yogurt to avoid foodborne illness.
Ensure all utensils and containers are clean to prevent contamination.
If using raw eggs (not in this recipe), avoid if pregnant or immunocompromised.
Substitutions:

Use canned mango pulp (1 cup) instead of fresh mangoes for mango lassi.
Replace sugar with honey, maple syrup, or stevia for different sweeteners.
Use plant-based yogurt for a vegan version (though texture may vary).
Substitute rose water with a few drops of vanilla extract or omit entirely.

Storage:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Do not freeze, as it may separate and alter texture.

Pro Tips:

For a thicker lassi, use full-fat yogurt and reduce the amount of milk or water.
Chilling all ingredients beforehand ensures a refreshing, frosty drink.
A small amount of cream or malai adds richness and a luxurious mouthfeel.
For a frothy top, blend longer or use a whipper blade in the mixer.
This recipe is gluten-free, vegetarian, and suitable for those following a dairy-inclusive diet.
It can be made ahead and stored chilled for up to a day, though best enjoyed fresh.