- What is black salt?
- Kala Namak is a volcanic rock salt with a distinctive 'eggy' smell. This gives the drink its character. If you don't have it, plain salt works, but it won't be the same.
- It's too thick.
- Lassi can be thick, but if you prefer a thinner drink, add more cold water or ice.
Spiced masala lassi
While Mango Lassi is a tourist favourite, Masala Lassi (or Chaas) is the true Indian cooler. This savoury, spiced yoghurt drink isn't a dessert, but a digestion-aiding, hydrating miracle in the summer heat. Roasted cumin and black salt (Kala Namak) give it that distinctive, slightly sulphurous, earthy flavour that might seem odd at first but is instantly addictive.
Ingredients
500
g
Natural yoghurt (preferably full-fat)
250
ml
Ice-cold water
2
tbsp
Fresh coriander leaves
1
tsp
Whole cumin seeds
0.5
tsp
Black salt (Kala Namak) or sea salt
1
pinch
Ground black pepper
1
slice
Green chilli (only if you can handle it!)
8
pcs
Ice cubes
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Small pan (for toasting spices)
- Blender or whisk
Allergen Information
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Toast the cumin seeds in a dry pan over a medium heat, shaking, until they darken and become fragrant. Crush coarsely in a mortar (or use whole).
Tip: Toasting (torrefaction) releases the essential oils and gives the spice a nutty flavour.
2
✓
Put the yoghurt, water, salt, pepper, half of the toasted cumin, coriander, and (if you dare) the chilli into a blender.
Tip: The proteins and fats in the yoghurt coat the tongue, so the heat of the chilli feels milder than in water.
3
✓
Blend until frothy, about 30 seconds.
Tip: The air bubbles make the drink light and refreshing.
4
✓
Pour into glasses over ice, and sprinkle the remaining toasted cumin on top as a garnish.
Tip: Consume immediately whilst cold and frothy.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 500 g Natural yoghurt (preferably full-fat)
- 250 ml Ice-cold water
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves
- 1 tsp Whole cumin seeds
- 0.5 tsp Black salt (Kala Namak) or sea salt
- 1 pinch Ground black pepper
- 1 slice Green chilli (only if you can handle it!)
- 8 pcs Ice cubes