- In a blender, combine whisked yogurt (curd), roasted oats powder, chilled water, salt, and sugar (or honey). Blend until smooth.
- Pour the lassi into serving glasses.
- Top with freshly roasted cumin powder, chopped coriander leaves, and dry rose petals (if using).
- Serve immediately, chilled.
- Calories:150 kcal25%
- Energy:627 kJ22%
- Protein:5 g28%
- Carbohydrates:25 mg40%
- Sugar:8 mg8%
- Salt:50 g25%
- Fat:2.5 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Authentic Indian Oats Lassi Recipe – Cumin & Rose Flavored Yogurt Drink
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for ways to sneak a little extra goodness into your day. And honestly? This Oats Lassi is a total game-changer. It’s creamy, cooling, and surprisingly filling – perfect for a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or even a light dessert. I first made this when I was trying to up my fiber intake, and it quickly became a family favorite! Let’s get into it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t your average lassi. We’re taking the traditional Indian yogurt drink and giving it a healthy, delicious twist with oats. The oats add a lovely texture and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully. Plus, it’s super quick to make – seriously, just a few minutes! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a taste of India while nourishing your body.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful lassi:
- 1 cup thick curd (yogurt) – about 240ml
- 1 cup chilled water – about 240ml
- 2 tbsp Quaker oats (lightly roasted and powdered) – about 16g
- ?? tbsp cumin seeds (freshly roasted and ground) – about 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey – about 20g
- As per taste salt – a pinch
- 2-3 tbsp fresh minced coriander leaves (slightly pressed) – about 15-20g
- ?? tbsp dry rose petals (optional) – about ½ – 1 tsp
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.
- Roasted Oats Powder: Don’t skip the roasting step! It really brings out the nutty flavor of the oats. You can easily roast them in a dry pan for a few minutes until fragrant, then grind them to a powder.
- Freshly Roasted Cumin: Trust me on this one. Pre-ground cumin just doesn’t have the same punch. Roasting the seeds yourself releases their amazing aroma and flavor. A quick dry roast in a pan is all it takes.
- Regional Variations in Yogurt Types: In India, we have so many types of curd! Dahi, Mattha, and even different consistencies depending on the region. I prefer a thick, creamy curd for this lassi, but feel free to experiment with what you have.
- Use of Rose Petals: Rose petals aren’t just pretty; they add a delicate floral aroma that’s traditionally used in Indian sweets and drinks. They’re optional, but they really elevate the lassi. Make sure they are food-grade!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get blending!
- First, in a blender, combine the whisked curd, roasted oats powder, chilled water, salt, and sugar (or honey).
- Now, blend everything together until it’s super smooth and creamy. You don’t want any lumps!
- Pour the lassi into your favorite serving glasses.
- Finally, top with freshly roasted cumin powder, a little press of those gorgeous coriander leaves, and a sprinkle of dry rose petals if you’re using them.
Expert Tips
Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:
- For an extra-chilled lassi, pop the glasses in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before pouring.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- A little bit of ginger can also add a lovely zing!
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Vegan Adaptation – Using Plant-Based Yogurt: My friend, who’s vegan, swears by using coconut yogurt or almond yogurt. It works beautifully!
- Sugar-Free Option: I often make this with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, especially when I’m watching my sugar intake.
- Spice Level – Adjusting Cumin: My husband loves a strong cumin flavor, so I sometimes add a little extra for him. Feel free to adjust to your preference.
- Summer Cooling Variation: Add a few mint leaves to the blender for an extra refreshing twist during hot summer months.
Serving Suggestions
This lassi is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with:
- Spicy Indian snacks like samosas or pakoras.
- A light breakfast of fruit and granola.
- As a refreshing drink after a workout.
Storage Instructions
This lassi is best enjoyed immediately. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The texture might change slightly, so give it a good stir before drinking.
FAQs
Let’s answer some common questions:
- Is this lassi suitable for diabetics? It depends. Using a sugar substitute and controlling the portion size can make it a more diabetes-friendly option. Always consult with a healthcare professional.
- Can I use pre-ground cumin powder? You can, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Freshly roasted and ground cumin is highly recommended.
- What type of oats works best for this recipe? I prefer Quaker oats (lightly roasted and powdered) because of their texture, but rolled oats will also work if you grind them into a powder first.
- Can I make this lassi ahead of time? It’s best fresh, but you can blend the ingredients (except the toppings) and store them in the fridge for a few hours. Add the toppings just before serving.
- What is the significance of rose petals in Indian drinks? Rose petals are considered cooling and fragrant in Ayurveda and are often used in traditional Indian drinks and desserts for their aromatic and therapeutic properties.
Enjoy! I hope you love this recipe as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what you think!
Neha Deshmukh
Neha holds a B.A. in History with a focus on Indian and world history, including ancient, medieval, and modern periods. At RecipesOfIndia.org — the world’s largest database of Indian recipes — she combines her love for food and history by exploring how India’s past has shaped its culinary traditions.