Easy Lassi Recipe – Yogurt, Cardamom & Sugar Drink

Last Updated on 5 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Lassi Recipe – Yogurt, Cardamom & Sugar Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a super quick, refreshing drink, especially during those warm days, you have to try this lassi recipe. It’s honestly one of the easiest things I make, and it always hits the spot. I first made this when I was craving something cool and comforting, and now it’s a regular in my kitchen! It’s the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and subtly spiced – seriously, it’s sunshine in a glass.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lassi isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly simple. With just a handful of ingredients and a blender, you can whip up a cooling drink in under 5 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast, a midday refresher, or even a light dessert. Plus, it’s naturally probiotic-rich thanks to the yogurt, so it’s a treat that’s good for you too!

Ingredients

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

• 1 1/4 cup yogurt (about 285ml)
• 2 tbsp sugar (approximately 20g)
• 1/4 cup water (about 60ml)
• A generous pinch of cardamom powder

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients for a sec, because a few little tweaks can make all the difference!

Yogurt (Type & Fat Content)

The yogurt is the star here, so choose wisely! I usually use plain, whole milk yogurt for the richest, creamiest lassi. But you can definitely use low-fat or non-fat yogurt if you prefer – it will still taste great, just a little less decadent. Greek yogurt works too, but you might need to add a splash more water to get the right consistency.

Sugar (Alternatives & Adjustments)

I like using regular granulated sugar, but feel free to experiment! Honey, maple syrup, or even a sugar substitute like stevia will work beautifully. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more sweetness, but you can’t take it away!

Cardamom Powder (Fresh vs. Ground & Quality)

Cardamom is what gives lassi that signature aromatic flavor. I usually use ground cardamom powder for convenience, but if you have cardamom pods, even better! Lightly crush a few pods and add them to the blender – the flavor is incredible. Just make sure your cardamom is fresh; it loses its potency over time.

Water (Temperature & Impact on Texture)

Using room temperature water helps everything blend smoothly. If the water is too cold, it can make the lassi a bit icy. You can also use ice cubes directly in the blender if you prefer a super chilled lassi, but it might slightly dilute the flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get blending! It’s seriously easy.

1. First, pour the yogurt, sugar, and water into your blender.
2. Now, blend it all up until it’s super smooth and frothy. This usually takes about a minute or so.
3. Pour the lassi into a glass.
4. Finally, sprinkle a generous pinch of cardamom powder on top.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! Add a few ice cubes if you like it extra cold.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make the perfect lassi:

• Chill your glass: Pop your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before pouring in the lassi – it makes it feel extra special.
• Don’t overblend: Overblending can make the lassi too thin. Blend just until smooth.
• Taste as you go: Adjust the sugar and cardamom to your liking. Everyone has different preferences!

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few of my favorite lassi variations:

Vegan Lassi

My friend, Priya, who’s vegan, loves making lassi with coconut yogurt or almond yogurt. It’s just as delicious! You might need to adjust the amount of water to get the right consistency.

Mango Lassi Adaptation

This is a classic! Add about 1/2 cup of chopped mango (fresh or frozen) to the blender along with the other ingredients. It’s seriously heavenly.

Sweetness Level Adjustment

If you prefer a less sweet lassi, start with 1 tablespoon of sugar and add more to taste. You can also use dates for a natural sweetener.

Spice Variations (Rosewater, Saffron)

A teaspoon of rosewater adds a beautiful floral aroma. Or, for a luxurious touch, add a few strands of saffron soaked in a tablespoon of warm milk.

Festival Adaptations (Holi, Summer Coolers)

During Holi, I love adding a pinch of turmeric to the lassi for a vibrant color. It’s also perfect for cooling down during hot summer months!

Serving Suggestions

Lassi is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs well with so many things! It’s fantastic with spicy Indian food, like biryani or tandoori chicken. It’s also a lovely accompaniment to a light breakfast or a simple snack.

Storage Instructions

Lassi is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers 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 drinking.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What type of yogurt is best for lassi?

Plain, whole milk yogurt is my go-to for the creamiest lassi, but you can use any type of yogurt you like!

Can I make lassi ahead of time?

You can, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. It might separate if stored for too long.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the lassi?

Start with less sugar and add more to taste. Honey, maple syrup, or dates are great alternatives.

What is cardamom and where can I find it?

Cardamom is a spice with a complex, aromatic flavor. You can find it in the spice aisle of most grocery stores, or at Indian grocery stores.

Can I use flavored yogurt for this recipe?

You can, but it will change the flavor of the lassi. I recommend sticking with plain yogurt for the best results.

Is lassi a good source of probiotics?

Yes! Yogurt is a great source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria for your gut health.