Authentic Indian Masala Chaas Recipe – Cumin & Mint Yogurt Drink

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Indian Masala Chaas Recipe – Cumin & Mint Yogurt Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, especially during the warmer months, you’re always looking for a refreshing drink. And honestly, nothing beats a tall glass of Masala Chaas. It’s cooling, flavorful, and super easy to make. I first discovered this when visiting my grandmother in Rajasthan, and it’s been a summer staple in my family ever since! Let’s get into it, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Masala Chaas (also known as spiced buttermilk) is a traditional Indian yogurt-based drink. It’s incredibly revitalizing, especially after a spicy meal. Think of it as a lighter, more flavorful alternative to a lassi. It’s packed with probiotics from the yogurt, making it good for your gut, and the spices add a lovely zing. Plus, it comes together in just 5 minutes!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this deliciousness:

• 1.5 cup chilled curd (yogurt) – about 360ml
• 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped mint or coriander leaves
• 0.5 teaspoon black salt (kala namak)
• 1 cup water – about 240ml

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because a few things really make a difference here.

• Chilled Curd: Seriously, use chilled curd! It’s the key to that perfectly cool and refreshing drink. I usually pop my yogurt in the fridge for at least an hour before making Chaas.
• Black Salt (Kala Namak): Don’t skip this! Kala namak has a unique sulfurous aroma that adds a fantastic savory depth. It’s what gives Masala Chaas that authentic flavor. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online. There are different varieties – some are more pungent than others, so adjust to your taste.
• Mint vs. Coriander: This is where things get regional! In some parts of India, mint is the go-to herb, while others swear by coriander. I personally love a mix of both, but feel free to choose your favorite. My mom always used coriander, while my aunt always went for mint – it’s a friendly debate!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some Chaas! It’s so simple, you’ll be sipping on this in no time.

1. First, grab your blender. Add the chilled curd, roasted cumin powder, chopped mint or coriander leaves, and black salt.
2. Pour in the water. If you like a really cold drink, add a handful of ice cubes now – totally optional!
3. Now, blend everything together for 2-3 minutes. You want it to be super smooth and frothy, and you should see a lovely layer of butterfat forming on top. That’s a good sign!
4. Pour into glasses, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or coriander, and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Roast Your Cumin: Roasting the cumin powder before adding it really enhances its flavor. Just dry roast the cumin seeds in a pan for a minute or two until fragrant, then grind them.
• Don’t Overblend: Overblending can make the Chaas too thin. Blend just until smooth and frothy.
• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of black salt and cumin powder to your liking.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: If you like a little heat, add a small piece of chopped green chili to the blender. My brother loves it spicy, so I always make a batch with chili just for him!
• Vegan Masala Chaas: Use your favorite plant-based yogurt instead of dairy curd. Coconut yogurt works particularly well.
• Consistency: If you prefer a thinner Chaas, add a little more water. For a thicker version, use less.
• Summer Cooling Adaptations: Add a pinch of cardamom powder or a splash of rose water for an extra cooling effect.

Serving Suggestions

Masala Chaas is fantastic on its own, but it’s also a great accompaniment to Indian meals. It pairs perfectly with spicy curries, biryani, or even just a simple plate of rice and lentils. It’s also a wonderful drink to enjoy on a hot day while lounging by the pool!

Storage Instructions

Masala Chaas is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. Keep in mind that it may separate slightly, so give it a good stir before drinking.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is Masala Chaas good for digestion? Absolutely! The yogurt contains probiotics that aid digestion, and the cumin is known to have digestive properties.
• Can I make Masala Chaas ahead of time? It’s best fresh, but you can blend the ingredients (without ice) and store in the fridge for a few hours. Add ice just before serving.
• What is the best type of yogurt to use for Masala Chaas? A thick, creamy yogurt works best. Full-fat yogurt will give you the richest flavor, but you can use low-fat if you prefer.
• Can I use dried mint or coriander instead of fresh? While fresh is always best, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh.
• What is black salt and why is it used in this recipe? Black salt (kala namak) is a volcanic rock salt with a distinctive sulfurous flavor. It adds a unique savory depth to Masala Chaas that you won’t get with regular salt.

Enjoy your homemade Masala Chaas! I hope this recipe brings a little bit of Indian sunshine into your kitchen. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out!