How To Create Refreshing Mango Lassi: A Step By Step Guide

Mango Lassi is a creamy, refreshing Indian beverage made with ripe mangoes, yogurt, sugar, and a touch of cardamom. It's blended until smooth and served chilled, topped with nuts or saffron for a rich flavor. Perfect for summer, it complements spicy meals beautifully.

Mango Lassi is a traditional Indian drink prepared using sweet mango pulp, thick yogurt, sugar, and a hint of cardamom for aroma. The ingredients are blended into a smooth, creamy consistency and served chilled, often garnished with nuts or saffron for added flavor. Using ripe, non-fibrous mangoes like Alphonso ensures the best taste. You can adjust the sweetness and consistency by adding milk or ice cubes. This refreshing beverage is ideal for hot summers and pairs perfectly with spicy Indian dishes. Mango Lassi is both nutritious and a delightful treat.

Ingredients (For 2 Servings):

Mango pulp: 1.5 cups (fresh or canned Alphonso/Kesar mango is ideal).
Thick yogurt: 1.5 to 2 cups (plain dahi or Greek yogurt for creaminess).
Milk or water: 1/4 to 1/2 cup (to adjust consistency).
Sugar: 1-2 tablespoons (adjust to taste based on mango sweetness).
Cardamom powder: 1/4 teaspoon (adds a lovely aroma).
Ice cubes: 1/2 cup (optional, for extra chill).
Saffron strands or rose water: Optional, for flavor enhancement.
Garnish: Chopped pistachios, almonds, or a saffron strand.

Steps to Prepare:

Prepare the Mango Pulp:
- If using fresh mangoes, peel and chop 2 ripe mangoes.
- Blend the pieces until smooth to make mango puree.
- If using canned pulp, measure it directly.
Blend the Ingredients:
- Mango pulp, thick yogurt, sugar, cardamom powder, and 1/4 cup of milk.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust consistency: Add more milk for a thinner texture or ice cubes to thicken and chill it further.
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the lassi and adjust sugar if needed. If the yogurt is tangy, you may need slightly more sugar.
Chill and Serve:
- Pour the lassi into glasses. For a chilled experience, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios, almonds, or a saffron strand for a decorative and flavorful touch.

Pro Tips for the Best Mango Lassi:

Choice of Mangoes: Use sweet, non-fibrous mangoes like Alphonso, Kesar, or Ataulfo for the best results. If fresh mangoes are unavailable, canned pulp works perfectly.
Yogurt Quality: Use full-fat, creamy yogurt for richness. Avoid sour yogurt, as it affects the sweetness.
Flavor Enhancements: Add a dash of rose water or a few strands of saffron for a unique, fragrant twist.
Avoid Ice Dilution: If you prefer a richer taste, chill the ingredients instead of adding ice cubes.