Authentic Lemongrass Coconut Buttermilk Recipe – Indian Summer Cooler

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Lemongrass Coconut Buttermilk Recipe – Indian Summer Cooler

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a refreshing drink to beat the Indian summer heat. And trust me, this Lemongrass Coconut Buttermilk is a total game-changer. I first made this a few years ago, inspired by my grandmother’s traditional recipes, and it’s been a family favourite ever since. It’s cooling, flavourful, and surprisingly easy to make. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another buttermilk drink. The fragrant lemongrass and creamy coconut milk take it to a whole new level. It’s the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and aromatic – a truly revitalizing drink. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Enjoy it on its own, with rice, or even as a digestive after a spicy meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious cooler:

• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup fresh, scrapped coconut
• 12-15 fresh lemongrass stalks
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Getting these right will make all the difference.

Lemongrass: Varieties and Freshness

Fresh lemongrass is key here. Look for stalks that are firm, plump, and have a lovely citrusy aroma. You can usually find it at Indian grocery stores or well-stocked supermarkets. There aren’t really “varieties” as such, but freshness is paramount.

Coconut: Using Fresh vs. Dried

Fresh coconut is always best for that authentic flavour. But if you’re short on time, you can use unsweetened desiccated coconut. You’ll need about ½ cup of desiccated coconut, and you might need to add a little extra water when grinding to get a paste.

Buttermilk: Traditional vs. Store-Bought Options

Traditionally, buttermilk (chaas) in India is the leftover liquid from making butter. It has a lovely tang. Nowadays, it’s easier to find cultured buttermilk in stores, which works perfectly well. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened.

Regional Variations in Coconut Milk Extraction

The way coconut milk is extracted varies across India. In South India, it’s common to grind the coconut with water multiple times to get both first and second extracts, as we do in this recipe. This ensures you get the maximum flavour and creaminess. Some regions might use just the first extract for a lighter drink.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, wash and roughly chop the lemongrass stalks. Don’t worry about being too precise here.
2. Now, take your fresh coconut and lemongrass and grind them together with about ½ cup of water into a fine paste. A good blender or food processor makes this much easier!
3. Strain this mixture through a sieve to extract the first batch of coconut milk. Press down on the pulp to get as much liquid as possible.
4. Don’t discard the leftover coconut pulp! Re-grind it with another ½ cup of water and strain again. This second extraction gives you a slightly thinner, but still flavourful, coconut milk.
5. In a large bowl, combine both batches of extracted coconut milk, the buttermilk, and salt to taste. Give it a good mix.
6. Finally, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed cold!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this recipe even better:

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

The consistency should be smooth and pourable, but not too watery. Adjust the amount of water you use when grinding the coconut to achieve this.

Adjusting Sweetness & Sourness

Taste as you go! If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a tiny bit of sugar or honey. For a tangier flavour, add a squeeze of lime juice.

Using a Blender for Coconut Milk Extraction

A high-powered blender really speeds up the coconut milk extraction process. Just be careful not to over-blend, as it can heat up the mixture.

Variations

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

Vegan Adaptation

Easily make this vegan by using plant-based buttermilk! Almond or soy buttermilk work beautifully.

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Green Chilies)

My friend, Priya, loves to add a tiny sliver of green chili to her buttermilk for a little kick. It’s surprisingly good!

Summer Cooling Variations (Adding Mint or Cucumber)

For an extra cooling effect, blend in a handful of fresh mint leaves or a few slices of cucumber.

Festival Adaptations (Serving during Onam or Vishu)

This drink is often served during Onam and Vishu celebrations in Kerala. It’s a refreshing way to start a festive meal.

Serving Suggestions

This lemongrass coconut buttermilk is fantastic on its own. But it also pairs wonderfully with:

• Spicy Indian curries
• Rice dishes
• Snacks like pakoras or samosas

Storage Instructions

You can store leftover buttermilk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavour might mellow slightly over time. Give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What is the best way to prepare fresh lemongrass for this recipe?

Trim the tough outer layers of the lemongrass stalk and use only the tender inner part. Bruising the stalks slightly before chopping helps release more flavour.

Can I use coconut milk from a carton instead of making it fresh?

You can, but the flavour won’t be quite as vibrant. If using carton coconut milk, opt for full-fat for a creamier texture.

How can I adjust the tanginess of the buttermilk?

Add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice for extra tang, or a tiny pinch of sugar to balance it out.

Is this drink suitable for people with lactose intolerance?

Traditional buttermilk contains lactose. Using a plant-based buttermilk alternative is the best option for those with lactose intolerance.

What are the health benefits of lemongrass and coconut?

Lemongrass is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Coconut is a good source of healthy fats and electrolytes.

Can I make this ahead of time? How long will it keep?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead. It’s best consumed within 24 hours for optimal flavour and freshness.