Mango Lassi

Mango Lassi: A Refreshing Delicacy with Exotic Flavor

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Looking to cool off on a hot day or add an exotic touch to your meal? Then, the Mango Lassi recipe is the perfect choice! This creamy smoothie, inspired by culinary traditions, combines the juicy sweetness of mango with the freshness of yogurt and milk, resulting in a delicious and healthy drink that will delight your senses.

Mango Lassi is not just a simple beverage; it's an experience! Its origins lie in the culinary traditions of various cultures, and its popularity has grown over time, becoming a favorite worldwide. This blend of fruits and dairy not only brings extraordinary flavor but also numerous nutritional benefits, making it ideal for any time of day.

Here’s how to prepare a delicious Mango Lassi, step by step.

Ingredients

- 1 ripe mango (approximately 300-400 g)
- 200 ml natural yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamier texture)
- 200 ml milk (or plant-based milk for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon honey (or sugar, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (for an extra flavor boost)

Necessary utensils

- A powerful blender
- A knife
- A spoon
- A serving bowl
- A strainer (optional, if you prefer a smoother drink)

Preparation

1. Preparing the mango: Choose a ripe mango with smooth skin and a sweet aroma. Cut it in half, remove the pit, and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh. If the mango is ripe, it should be easy to scoop and have a creamy texture.

2. Blending the ingredients: Place the mango flesh in the blender, add the yogurt, milk, and honey. You can adjust the amount of honey based on how sweet your mango is. If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can omit the honey altogether or replace it with a natural sweetener.

3. Blending: Start the blender on medium speed and blend the ingredients for about 1-2 minutes until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. If you want a thinner lassi, you can add a little more milk.

4. Chilling: Once you have a smooth mixture, transfer it to a bowl and let it chill for about 15 minutes. This step is essential, as the lassi becomes much more refreshing and enjoyable.

5. Serving: Once the lassi has chilled, pour it into glasses. Sprinkle a little ground cardamom on top for added flavor and a decorative touch. If you like, you can also add a few ice cubes for an even more refreshing experience.

Tips and useful advice

- Choosing the mango: Make sure the mango is ripe; a mango that is still green or too firm will not provide the same sweetness and flavor. Buy the mango a few days before you plan to use it to allow it to ripen.
- The yogurt: If you use Greek yogurt, the lassi will be creamier and more satisfying. If you prefer a lighter option, plain natural yogurt works perfectly. You can also experiment with flavored yogurts, but be sure to adjust the amount of honey.
- Variations: You can add other fruits to create delicious variations of the lassi. For example, peaches or pineapple mixed with mango can add an interesting twist. You can also replace cardamom with cinnamon for a different taste.
- Alternative sweeteners: Instead of honey, you can use agave syrup or a natural sweetener, depending on your dietary preferences.
- Creative serving: Mango Lassi can be served as a refreshing appetizer or as a light dessert, perfect for ending a hearty meal.

Nutritional benefits

Mango Lassi is not only delicious but also nutritious. Mango is rich in vitamins (especially vitamins C and A), antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Yogurt provides essential probiotics for gut health, and honey offers a natural energy boost. This drink is also an excellent option for those looking to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Calories

Calories in a serving of Mango Lassi (approximately 250 ml) are around 200-250 kcal, depending on the ingredients used. It's a great choice for a healthy snack or a quick breakfast!

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen mango?
Yes, you can use frozen mango to achieve a colder and more refreshing drink. Just make sure to let it thaw a bit before blending.

2. How can I make the lassi more filling?
Adding a ripe banana or a tablespoon of almond butter can turn the lassi into a more filling smoothie, perfect for breakfast.

3. Can I make Mango Lassi dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use plant-based yogurt and almond or coconut milk to create a vegan version of this drink.

Delicious pairings

Mango Lassi pairs perfectly with Indian dishes, such as spicy curries, but it can also be enjoyed alongside fresh salads or grilled dishes. I recommend serving it with a fruit pie or oatmeal cookies for an ideal snack.

So, get ready to cool off with a delicious Mango Lassi! This simple and quick recipe will bring a touch of sunshine to your day, and the blend of flavors will make you feel exotic and revitalized. Enjoy it with friends or at a family meal and let yourself be carried away by its wonderful taste!