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Cumin Ginger Lassi
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Cumin Ginger Lassi (Healthy Yogurt Drink)

A cooling, savory yogurt drink infused with toasted cumin, fresh ginger, and green chili. Perfect as a refreshing accompaniment to spicy food or on its own.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Cumin Ginger Lassi, Healthy Yogurt Drink
Servings: 4 People
Calories: 7kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 250 ml 9 fl oz natural yogurt
  • 2.5 cm 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
  • 1 green chili finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 400 ml 14 fl oz chilled water
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Method

    Toast the Cumin:

    • Place the cumin seeds in a small dry frying pan over low heat.
    • Toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until fragrant and lightly browned.
    • Transfer to a mortar and pestle and crush to a coarse powder.

    Mix the Lassi:

    • In a large jug, whisk together:
    • The yogurt
    • Grated ginger
    • Chopped green chili
    • Salt
    • Most of the crushed cumin (reserve a little for garnish)

    Add Water:

    • Pour in the chilled water.
    • Whisk or stir until smooth and lightly frothy.

    Serve:

    • Pour into 4 glasses.
    • Sprinkle with the reserved cumin powder.
    • Serve immediately.

    Notes

    Ingredient swaps:
    • Use black salt instead of regular salt for a more authentic tang
    • Add a pinch of chaat masala for extra flavor
    • Use kefir in place of yogurt for a probiotic boost
    Technique tips:
    • Roast cumin seeds fresh and grind for best aroma
    • Balance water to yogurt ratio depending on how thick you like it
    • Grate ginger finely to avoid fibrous bits in the drink
    Make-ahead and storage:
    • Best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for 1 day
    • Whisk again before serving if stored
    • Do not freeze as texture will split
    Serving ideas:
    • Pair with parathas, biryani, or heavy curries for balance
    • Serve as a cooling drink at summer gatherings
    • Offer in small clay cups (kulhads) for a traditional touch
    Twist ideas:
    • Spicier: Add a pinch of black pepper or green chili paste
    • Herby: Blend with fresh coriander or mint
    • Tangier: Add a squeeze of lemon juice
    • Fusion: Serve as a savory smoothie with cucumber and herbs

    Nutrition

    Calories: 7kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 82mg | Potassium: 18mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 7IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.3mg