Salted lassi is a traditional Indian drink that is renowned for its refreshing and cooling properties. This savory drink is loved by many, especially those who do not want to drink something sweet. It is a perfect thirst quencher on a hot summer day, and its tangy taste is incredibly satisfying. It is one of my favorite summer drinks and I would pick salt lassi over sweet lassi any day!
One of the main reasons why salted lassi is so popular is because of its health benefits. It contains no sugar, which makes it a great alternative to sweetened beverages. The main ingredient in salted lassi is yogurt, which is a rich source of probiotics, protein, and calcium. Try this salt lassi recipe today and enjoy a rejuvenating drink on hot summer days.
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Why you will love this recipe?
- Quick and easy: With simple ingredients that are easily available, you can whip up a delicious batch of salty Punjabi lassi in under 5 minutes, making it convenient on hot summer days.
- Healthy and refreshing: This healthy and delicious drink is packed with probiotics and is also a great source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients.
- Sugar-free: Without any added sugar, this drink is a healthy alternative to sugar-laden beverages.
Traditionally, salt lassi is made using a handheld wooden churner, called mathani, which is used to churn the lassi until it becomes frothy. This process adds air to the lassi, making it lighter and fluffier. However, in modern times, we can use a wired whisk or blend the ingredients in a blender.
Salted lassi is also known by other names, such as masala lassi or namkeen lassi. Masala lassi is made by adding various spices, such as cumin, ginger, or mint, to this basic recipe, while namkeen lassi is made by adding regular salt and black salt.
Ingredients
Yogurt: Use plain whole milk yogurt to make creamy lassi. Thick yogurt will help make the lassi creamy. Low-fat yogurt can also be used for a lighter version.
Spices: We need roasted cumin powder, salt, and black salt (kala namak). You can also add chaat masala along with these spices.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Add chilled yogurt, water, salt, kala namak, and roasted cumin powder to a blender.
Step 2: Blend for one minute until the yogurt is smooth.
Variations of lassi
Here are some lassi recipes that are a great way to add a twist to this easy savory lassi recipe.
Malai lassi: This is not a variation but rather adds a traditional touch. Add a layer of clotted cream (malai) or heavy cream on top of the lassi and serve in small earthen pots ( called kulhar).
Meethi lassi or sweet lassi: Make a sweet version of lassi by blending it with sugar and milk.
Fruit-based lassi: Use mangoes, blackberries, or strawberries to make mango lassi, blackberry lassi, or strawberry lassi.
Rose lassi: Add one teaspoon of rose water or rose syrup along with the rest of the ingredients.
Kesar lassi: Skip the salt and spices. Add crushed saffron strands along with sugar and cardamom powder to make delicious kesar lassi.
Vegan lassi: To make vegan lassi, replace yogurt with cashew yogurt, coconut yogurt, or any dairy-free yogurt.
Greek yogurt lassi: You can also use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt. However, in that case, you may have to adjust the amount of water or milk needed to bring it to the right consistency. For this recipe, you will need ½ cup of extra liquid.
Useful tips
Use chilled yogurt and cold water straight from the fridge. This will help keep your lassi cool and refreshing. Alternatively, use ice cubes instead of water for blending.
Freshly made salty lassi will give you the best taste. However, if you need to make it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more the flavor and texture may change.
You can use a blender or whisk to make lassi, depending on your preference. If using a blender, make sure to blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and frothy.
You can garnish your lassi with fresh herbs such as fresh mint leaves or cilantro to add a pop of color and flavor to your drink.
To make roasted cumin powder, dry roast cumin seeds on low heat for 2-3 minutes. Once they cool down, grind it in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
You can use ground cumin instead of roasted cumin powder. However, roasted cumin powder has a slightly different flavor profile compared to regular ground cumin. Roasting the cumin seeds helps to bring out their nutty, smoky aroma and flavor, which can enhance the taste of the lassi. If you use regular ground cumin instead, you may miss out on some of these subtle notes. That being said, ground cumin is still a flavorful and convenient alternative, and it will work perfectly fine in this recipe. So feel free to use it if that's what you have on hand.
More yogurt-based summer drinks
FAQs
While they are both yogurt-based savory drinks, the main difference lies in the consistency and spices used. Lassi is thicker consistency while chaas is thin and are made by blending yogurt with lots of water and spices.
Yes. It can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure you give it a good mix just before serving.
Kala namak, also known as Himalayan black salt, is a type of rock salt that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is named after its color, which is pinkish-grey or brownish-black. This variety of black salt is a highly valued ingredient in many dishes due to its distinctive taste and aroma, which is slightly sulfurous and eggy. This is because it contains small amounts of sulfur compounds, which give it its unique flavor profile. It is often used as a finishing salt, sprinkled over dishes just before serving to enhance their flavor. It is commonly used in chaat, chutneys, raitas, and other savory dishes.
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Recipe card
Salted Lassi (Masala Lassi)
Ingredients
- 2 cups yogurt (chilled)
- ½ cup water (cold or iced water)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon kala namak (Indian black salt)
- 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder see notes
Instructions
- Take chilled yogurt, water, salt, kala namak, and roasted cumin powder in a blender jar. Blend for one minute until the yogurt is smooth and frothy.
- Alternatively, add all the ingredients to a bowl. Using a whisk, start whisking them until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour into serving glasses and serve immediately.
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