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.

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.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve mango lassi chilled as a standalone summer drink or as a cooling complement to spicy Indian meals like butter chicken, biryani, or kebabs.