Authentic Indian Lassi Recipe – Rose Water & Cardamom Delight

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Indian Lassi Recipe – Rose Water & Cardamom Delight

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a cool, creamy, and utterly refreshing drink, you have to try this Indian Lassi recipe. It’s a staple in Indian households, especially during the hot summer months, and honestly, it’s my go-to when I need a little pick-me-up. I first made this for my family during a particularly scorching heatwave, and it was an instant hit! It’s so simple to make, and the delicate flavors of rose water and cardamom are just divine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lassi isn’t just a drink; it’s a little slice of Indian comfort. It’s incredibly quick to whip up – seriously, just 5 minutes! – and requires minimal ingredients. Plus, it’s naturally cooling and soothing, making it perfect for any time of year. The rose and cardamom add a beautiful aromatic touch that elevates it beyond a simple yogurt drink. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and honestly, it feels like a hug in a glass.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Rose & Cardamom Lassi:

• 1 ½ cups thick yogurt
• ½ cup cold milk
• 2 tbsp sugar (or to taste)
• A fat pinch of cardamom powder
• 1 tsp rose water
• Saffron, for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! Getting these right makes all the difference.

• Yogurt: This is the star, so use a really thick yogurt. I prefer full-fat for the creamiest texture, but you can use low-fat if you prefer. Greek yogurt works beautifully too! (About 240g – 280g)
• Cardamom: Freshly ground cardamom is best, but good quality cardamom powder works wonderfully. Don’t skimp – the aroma is key!
• Rose Water: Authentic rose water adds that signature floral note. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online. Make sure it’s food-grade!
• Lassi Variations: Lassi comes in so many forms! You’ve got sweet lassi (like this one), salty lassi (often served with a pinch of cumin), mango lassi (a summer favorite!), and even bhang lassi (a special drink enjoyed during festivals – but that’s a story for another day!).

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get lassi-making! It’s super easy, I promise.

1. First, whisk the yogurt in a bowl until it gets nice and frothy. This is important for a light and airy texture.
2. Now, add the cold milk, water, and sugar. Whisk everything together until the sugar is completely dissolved. Don’t rush this step!
3. Next, sprinkle in the cardamom powder and add the rose water. Give it another good beat to combine all those lovely flavors.
4. Finally, pour the lassi into tall glasses. Garnish with a few strands of saffron for a beautiful touch (and a little extra flavor!). Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Want to take your lassi game to the next level? Here are a few of my secrets:

• Frothy Texture: The key to a perfect lassi is whisking! Don’t be afraid to really work that yogurt. You can even use a blender for an extra-frothy result.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar to your liking. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if needed.
• Chilled Ingredients: Using cold milk and yogurt will help keep your lassi refreshingly cool. You can even chill the glasses beforehand!

Variations

Lassi is so versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Vegan Lassi: Swap the dairy yogurt for your favorite plant-based yogurt – coconut or almond yogurt work particularly well.
• Mango Lassi Adaptation: Add about a cup of chopped mango (fresh or frozen) to the blender along with the other ingredients. My friend, Priya, makes the best mango lassi this way!
• Spice Level Adjustment: For a little warmth, add a tiny pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg.
• Festival Adaptations: Lassi is often enjoyed during festivals like Holi and Baisakhi. It’s a refreshing treat after all the dancing and celebrating!

Serving Suggestions

This lassi is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with Indian snacks like samosas, pakoras, or even a light biryani. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to a spicy meal – the coolness really helps balance the heat.

Storage Instructions

Lassi is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is the best type of yogurt to use for lassi?

Thick, full-fat yogurt is ideal for the creamiest texture. Greek yogurt is also a great option!

Can I make lassi ahead of time?

You can, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you make it ahead, it might separate, so give it a good stir before serving.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the lassi?

Start with 2 tablespoons of sugar and add more to taste. You can also use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.

What is rose water and where can I find it?

Rose water is a fragrant liquid made from rose petals. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online.

Can I use cardamom pods instead of cardamom powder?

Yes, you can! Crush a few cardamom pods and add them to the lassi while blending. Just make sure to strain the lassi before serving to remove the pod pieces.