Quick Lassi Recipe – Yogurt & Cream Indian Summer Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Quick Lassi Recipe – Yogurt & Cream Indian Summer Drink

Okay, let’s be real. When the weather heats up, nothing hits the spot quite like a cool, creamy lassi. I remember making this for the first time during a particularly scorching summer, and it instantly became a family favorite! It’s unbelievably easy to whip up, and seriously refreshing. This quick lassi recipe is the perfect Indian summer drink – and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lassi isn’t just delicious; it’s a lifesaver on hot days. It’s ready in under 5 minutes, requires just a handful of ingredients, and is incredibly customizable. Plus, it’s a fantastic introduction to Indian flavors for anyone who’s new to the cuisine. Honestly, what’s not to love? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, cool, and creamy.

Ingredients

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

• 2 cups plain whole milk yogurt (about 475ml)
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 cup milk (about 240ml)
• ¼ cup heavy whipping cream (about 60ml)
• ¼ – ⅓ cup sugar (50-80g), or to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! Using full-fat yogurt is key here. It gives the lassi that wonderfully thick and creamy texture we’re after. Low-fat yogurt just won’t cut it, trust me.

Lassi actually has regional variations. In some parts of India, it’s traditionally a salty drink, often flavored with cumin. But this recipe is for the classic sweet lassi that I grew up with.

As for sugar, you can use whatever you prefer! White sugar is traditional, but I sometimes use a little bit of brown sugar for a slightly more caramel-y flavor. You could even experiment with honey or maple syrup, though that will change the flavor profile a bit.

Step-By-Step Instructions

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

1. First, add the yogurt, ice cubes, milk, heavy whipping cream, and sugar to your blender. Don’t be shy with the ice – it’s what makes it so wonderfully cold!
2. Now, blend everything together until it’s super smooth and frothy. You want to make sure there are absolutely no ice chunks left. Nobody wants a crunchy lassi!
3. Give it a taste! This is where you can adjust the sweetness. Add a little more sugar if you like it sweeter, or a splash more milk if it’s too sweet for your liking.
4. Pour the lassi into chilled glasses. This keeps it colder for longer, which is important.
5. Serve immediately! Lassi is best enjoyed fresh. You can garnish with a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of slivered nuts if you’re feeling fancy.

Expert Tips

Here are a few little tricks I’ve learned over the years:

• Chill your glasses: Pop them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before serving for an extra-cold treat.
• Don’t overblend: Overblending can make the lassi too thin. Blend just until smooth.
• Adjust to your liking: This recipe is a great base. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients!

Variations

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

• Vegan Lassi: Swap the yogurt and heavy cream for plant-based alternatives like coconut yogurt and coconut cream. It’s surprisingly delicious!
• Mango Lassi: Add 1 cup of chopped mango (fresh or frozen) to the blender. My kids adore this one.
• Rose Lassi: Add 1-2 tablespoons of rose syrup to the blender. It’s so fragrant and refreshing.
• Spice Level: A pinch of cardamom powder adds a lovely warmth and complexity. About ¼ teaspoon is perfect.
• Festival Adaptations – Holi Lassi: During Holi, add a tiny pinch of saffron and a tablespoon of thandai powder for a festive twist!

Serving Suggestions

Lassi 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. It’s also a lovely addition to a brunch spread or a summer picnic.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, 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 you’ll need to give it a good stir before drinking. The texture won’t be quite as perfect as freshly made, though.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

Is lassi a healthy drink?

Lassi can be a healthy drink! Yogurt is a good source of probiotics and calcium. However, it can also be high in sugar, so it’s best to enjoy it in moderation.

Can I make lassi ahead of time?

As mentioned above, it’s best enjoyed fresh. But you can make it a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge.

What kind of yogurt is best for lassi?

Full-fat, plain yogurt is the way to go! It provides the best texture and flavor.

Can I use flavored yogurt for lassi?

You can, but it will change the flavor of the lassi. I recommend sticking with plain yogurt and adding your own flavors.

How do I adjust the thickness of my lassi?

If it’s too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a tablespoon of yogurt.