- Combine the avocado, yogurt, milk (or water), honey, cardamom powder, and rosewater in a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into two glasses, garnish with crushed pistachios, and serve immediately.
- Calories:250 kcal25%
- Energy:1046 kJ22%
- Protein:6 g28%
- Carbohydrates:25 mg40%
- Sugar:18 mg8%
- Salt:50 g25%
- Fat:15 g20%
Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh
Avocado Lassi Recipe – Rosewater & Cardamom Indian Smoothie
Introduction
Okay, friends, let me tell you about my latest obsession: Avocado Lassi! It sounds a little… unexpected, right? But trust me on this one. It’s creamy, dreamy, subtly sweet, and unbelievably refreshing. I first made this when I was craving something cool and healthy on a hot summer day, and it’s been a staple ever since. This isn’t your typical mango lassi, but it’s just as delicious – and packed with good fats! Let’s dive in and make some magic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Avocado Lassi is seriously a game-changer. It’s quick to whip up (we’re talking under 5 minutes!), requires minimal ingredients, and is a fantastic way to sneak in some extra nutrients. Plus, the rosewater and cardamom give it this beautiful, fragrant, almost magical flavor that’s so uniquely Indian. It’s a perfect breakfast, snack, or even a light dessert.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this luscious lassi:
- 1 whole ripe avocado
- 1 cup thick yogurt
- ½ cup milk or water
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 dash cardamom powder
- 1 tbsp rosewater
- Crushed pistachios, for garnish
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because getting these right makes all the difference.
Avocado Selection & Ripeness
You want an avocado that yields to gentle pressure – not rock hard, but not mushy either. Hass avocados are my go-to because they get beautifully creamy when ripe. A perfectly ripe avocado will make your lassi unbelievably smooth.
Yogurt Type – Traditional vs. Greek
Traditionally, lassi is made with dahi – a thick, slightly tangy yogurt. If you can find Indian-style yogurt, that’s fantastic! Otherwise, full-fat Greek yogurt works beautifully, giving you that lovely creaminess. You can also use regular yogurt, but you might need to adjust the amount of milk/water to get the right consistency.
The Aroma of Rosewater
Rosewater is a key flavor here, adding a delicate floral note. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it! Look for pure rosewater, not rose flavoring.
Cardamom – Freshly Ground vs. Powder
Freshly ground cardamom is always best – the aroma is incredible! But if you’re short on time, good quality cardamom powder works just fine.
Ingredients for a Vegan Avocado Lassi
Don’t worry, plant-based friends! We’ll cover how to make this vegan-friendly later on.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get blending! It’s seriously easy.
- First, combine the avocado, yogurt, milk or water, honey, cardamom powder, and rosewater in a blender.
- Now, blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. Seriously, blend until there are absolutely no lumps!
- Pour into two glasses, garnish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Expert Tips
Want to take your Avocado Lassi to the next level? Here are a few of my favorite tricks:
Achieving the Perfect Lassi Consistency
The ideal lassi consistency is somewhere between a milkshake and a smoothie – thick enough to be satisfying, but still drinkable. Adjust the amount of milk or water to get it just right.
Blending Techniques for a Smooth Texture
A high-speed blender is your best friend here. If you don’t have one, blend for a little longer and scrape down the sides a few times.
Adjusting Sweetness to Your Preference
Taste as you go! If you like things sweeter, add a little more honey. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives.
Using Cold Ingredients for a Refreshing Lassi
For an extra-refreshing lassi, use chilled yogurt and milk/water. You can even pop the avocado in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before blending.
Variations
Let’s get creative!
Vegan Avocado Lassi
Swap the yogurt for a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt. It’s just as delicious! My friend, Priya, swears by using coconut yogurt for a tropical twist.
Gluten-Free Avocado Lassi (Naturally Gluten-Free)
Good news! This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Spice Level – Adding a Pinch of Ginger or Chili
Feeling adventurous? Add a tiny pinch of grated ginger or a very small pinch of chili powder for a little kick.
Festival Adaptations – A Healthy Holi Drink
This lassi is a fantastic, healthy alternative to the sugary drinks often enjoyed during Holi. The vibrant green color is also very festive!
Serving Suggestions
This lassi is wonderful on its own, but you can also pair it with:
- A light breakfast of poha or upma.
- Spicy Indian snacks like samosas or pakoras.
- As a refreshing palate cleanser between courses.
Storage Instructions
Avocado lassi is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be aware that it may separate slightly, so give it a good stir before drinking.
FAQs
Got questions? I’ve got answers!
Is Avocado Lassi a Healthy Drink?
Absolutely! Avocado is packed with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. Yogurt provides protein and probiotics, and honey offers antioxidants. It’s a nutritious and delicious treat.
Can I Make Avocado Lassi Ahead of Time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the avocado and measure out the other ingredients, then store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to blend.
What if I Don’t Have Rosewater?
If you don’t have rosewater, you can omit it. The lassi will still be delicious, but you’ll miss out on that lovely floral aroma. A tiny splash of orange blossom water can be a substitute, but use it sparingly!
Can I Use Frozen Avocado for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Frozen avocado will make the lassi extra thick and cold. Just make sure to thaw it slightly before blending.
How Can I Adjust the Thickness of My Lassi?
Too thick? Add more milk or water. Too thin? Add a few ice cubes or a tablespoon of yogurt. It’s all about finding your perfect consistency!