Mango Lassi

Name: Mango Lassi
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 300 g ripe mango; 300 g yogurt; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 pinch cardamom; as needed ice; 1 pinch saffron — optional

25 minutes prep 45 minutes cook Serves 4 to 6 vegetarian

Mango Lassi is a staple of Punjab summers, when the sun is fierce and the need for a cooling, refreshing drink is paramount. Crafted with the ripest mangoes and creamy yogurt, this lassi is a family favorite, often prepared with an instinctive touch—salt measured by feel and the richness of fat embraced without hesitation. This home-style version captures the essence of how an Indian family cook lovingly brings it to the table.

The lassi should taste like a silky blend of sweet mango and tangy yogurt, with a subtle hint of cardamom and the exotic aroma of saffron. Served icy cold, it offers a luscious, soothing texture that quenches thirst and satisfies the soul in one glass.

Ingredients

300 gripe mango
300 gyogurt
2 tbspsugar
1 pinchcardamom
as neededice
1 pinchsaffron — optional

Method

Begin by preparing the mango. Peel and pit 300 g of ripe mango, then chop it into small chunks. Ensure the mango is ripe and fragrant, as this will impart the best flavor to your lassi.
In a blender, combine the mango chunks with 300 g of yogurt. Use plain, full-fat yogurt for a creamy texture. The yogurt should be chilled to help create a refreshing drink.
Add 2 tablespoons of sugar to the blender. Adjust the sweetness according to your preference, but start with this amount to maintain the traditional balance.
Sprinkle in a pinch of cardamom. This spice adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the sweetness of the mango.
Add a handful of ice to the blender. This will chill the lassi further and give it a smooth, frothy texture.
Blend the mixture on a medium setting until smooth and creamy. The lassi should be thick but pourable, with no visible chunks of mango remaining.
Pour the lassi into glasses immediately. Traditional glassware, such as tall steel tumblers, can enhance the experience.
Garnish each glass with a pinch of saffron. The saffron will add a subtle fragrance and a touch of elegance to the presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors.