Buttermilk Onion Chaas Recipe – Quick Indian Summer Cooler

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Buttermilk Onion Chaas Recipe – Quick Indian Summer Cooler

Okay, let’s be real. When the Indian summer heat hits, nothing beats a tall glass of chaas – a cool, refreshing buttermilk drink. But this isn’t just any chaas. This is Buttermilk Onion Chaas, and trust me, it’s a game changer! I first stumbled upon this recipe at a friend’s place during a particularly scorching Delhi summer, and I’ve been hooked ever since. It’s savory, tangy, and unbelievably cooling. Plus, it comes together in just 5 minutes! Let’s get into it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Buttermilk Onion Chaas is the perfect blend of flavors. The buttermilk provides a creamy base, while the pearl onions and ginger give it a lovely zing. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients. Seriously, if you’re looking for a quick and healthy way to beat the heat, this is it. It’s also a fantastic digestive aid – more on that later!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful cooler:

• 2 cup cold buttermilk (approx. 475ml)
• 4 pearl onions (shallots)
• 1-2 tsp chopped ginger
• 2 green chilies
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 6 mint leaves
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Buttermilk: Buttermilk isn’t just cooling, it’s also fantastic for your gut health! It’s packed with probiotics. You can easily find it in most Indian grocery stores, or even make your own by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 10-15 minutes.
• Pearl Onions (Shallots): These little guys add a wonderful mild onion flavor. They’re different from regular onions – a bit sweeter and less pungent. In some regions of India, especially Maharashtra, people use finely chopped red onion instead, which gives a sharper bite.
• Curry & Mint Leaves: Fresh is always best here. The aroma and flavor of fresh curry and mint leaves are unbeatable. They add a beautiful freshness that really elevates the chaas. Don’t skimp on these!

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 cold buttermilk, pearl onions, chopped ginger, green chilies, curry leaves, mint leaves, and a pinch of salt.
2. Now, blend everything together until it’s nicely combined. Don’t worry if it’s a little textured – some people actually prefer it that way!
3. Pour the mixture into serving glasses. You can leave it as is for a more rustic feel, or strain it through a fine-mesh sieve if you prefer a smoother consistency.
4. Add a few ice cubes to each glass for that extra chill. Garnish with a sprig of mint, and enjoy immediately!

Expert Tips

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

• Chill Everything: Using cold buttermilk and adding ice cubes is key for a truly refreshing drink.
• Adjust to Your Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of ginger and green chilies to suit your spice preference.
• Don’t Overblend: Overblending can make the chaas frothy. Blend just until combined.

Variations

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

• Spice Level Adjustments: My brother loves his chaas fiery. He adds an extra green chili and a pinch of red chili powder.
• Vegan Option: For a plant-based version, simply substitute the buttermilk with plant-based yogurt (like almond or soy yogurt) thinned with a little water.
• Regional Twist: My grandmother always adds a pinch of roasted cumin powder to her chaas. It gives it a lovely smoky flavor.
• Summer vs. Winter: In the winter, I sometimes like to warm the buttermilk slightly before blending for a comforting, spiced drink.

Serving Suggestions

This chaas is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with Indian meals. It’s especially good with spicy dishes, as it helps to cool the palate. Serve it alongside biryani, samosas, or any of your favorite Indian snacks.

Storage Instructions

This chaas is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavors might mellow slightly, but it will still be delicious. Give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Is this chaas good for digestion? Absolutely! Buttermilk is known for its probiotic properties, which aid in digestion. The ginger and mint also have digestive benefits.
• Can I make this chaas ahead of time? You can, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. The flavors are most vibrant when it’s first made.
• What is the best type of salt to use? I prefer using Himalayan pink salt, but regular table salt works just fine.
• Can I use dried mint leaves if fresh aren’t available? While fresh is best, you can use about 1 teaspoon of dried mint leaves. Just remember the flavor won’t be as strong.
• How can I adjust the consistency of the chaas? Add a little water to thin it out, or a few more ice cubes to thicken it.
• What are the health benefits of pearl onions in this drink? Pearl onions are packed with antioxidants and vitamins. They’re also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.