Cooling Oat & Mint Lassi Recipe – Traditional Indian Summer Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Cooling Oat & Mint Lassi Recipe – Traditional Indian Summer Drink

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 honestly, nothing quite hits the spot like a cool, creamy lassi. But this isn’t your grandma’s regular lassi (though, let’s be real, her lassi was probably amazing too!). I’ve given this traditional drink a little twist with the addition of oats, and trust me, it’s a game changer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Oat & Mint Lassi is the perfect blend of traditional flavors and a modern, healthy boost. It’s incredibly easy to make, takes just a few minutes to whip up, and is unbelievably cooling. Plus, the oats add a lovely subtle texture and make it a bit more filling – perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack. I first made this when trying to find a way to sneak a little extra fiber into my family’s diet, and it’s been a hit ever since!

Ingredients

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

• ¼ cup Instant oats (approx. 30g)
• 1 cup Thick curd (approx. 240g)
• 3-4 cups Water (720-960ml) – adjust to your desired consistency
• ¼ tsp Roasted jeera powder (approx. 1g)
• As needed Salt (a pinch!)
• 1 inch piece Ginger
• 2 tbsp Mint leaves & coriander leaves (combined, roughly chopped)
• 1-2 nos Green chilli (adjust to your spice preference)
• ½ tsp Mustard seeds (approx. 2g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! Using oats in a lassi might sound unusual, but it works beautifully. They add a subtle nutty flavor and a creamy texture without being overpowering.

Traditionally, lassi is made with dahi – thick, strained yogurt. This is key for that lovely creamy consistency. If your curd isn’t super thick, you can strain it through a muslin cloth for a couple of hours.

Spice levels in lassi vary hugely across India. Some regions love a good kick, while others prefer a milder flavor. Feel free to adjust the green chilli to your liking! And don’t skimp on the fresh herbs – they really make this lassi sing.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get lassi-making!

1. First, let’s make that flavourful paste. Grind the ginger, mint leaves, coriander leaves, and green chilli into a smooth paste with a little water. You want it to be nice and fine, so don’t be afraid to add a splash more water if needed.
2. Next, dry roast the instant oats in a pan for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant. This step really enhances their flavour! Once roasted, grind them into a fine powder.
3. Now for the main event! In a bowl, combine the oat powder, thick curd, salt, jeera powder, and the green paste we just made. Add water gradually, whisking until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Time for the tadka! Heat a small pan and temper the mustard seeds in it. Once they splutter, pour this over the lassi mixture.
5. Finally, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves. And that’s it! Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving – it tastes even better cold.

Expert Tips

• Don’t over-grind the oats – you want a powder, not oat flour!
• Adjust the water to get your perfect lassi consistency. Some like it thick, others prefer it thinner.
• A pinch of black salt (kala namak) adds a lovely tangy flavour.
• For an extra cooling effect, add a few ice cubes before blending.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Vegan Adaptation: Swap the curd for plant-based yogurt – coconut yogurt or almond yogurt work really well.
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as your oats are certified gluten-free.
• Spice Level Adjustments: My friend, Priya, loves to add a pinch of red chilli powder for an extra fiery kick!
• Summer Cooling Adaptations: My mom always adds a few rose petals to her lassi in the summer – it’s incredibly refreshing and fragrant.

Serving Suggestions

This Oat & Mint Lassi is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Spicy Indian snacks like samosas or pakoras
• A light lunch of roti and sabzi
• As a refreshing drink after a workout

Storage Instructions

You can store leftover lassi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this lassi suitable for diabetics? While oats are generally good for managing blood sugar, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes.
• Can I use pre-ground oat flour? Yes, you can! But roasting the oats first really does enhance the flavour.
• What is the best type of curd to use? Thick, strained curd (dahi) is ideal. Greek yogurt is a good substitute if you can’t find traditional dahi.
• Can I make this lassi ahead of time? Yes, you can make it a few hours in advance and chill it in the fridge.
• How can I adjust the thickness of the lassi? Simply add more or less water to achieve your desired consistency.

Enjoy your homemade Oat & Mint Lassi! I hope it becomes a summer staple in your home, just like it has in mine. Let me know what you think in the comments below!