Lassi -Erakina

Lassi, a combination of fresh curd churned to perfection with sugar or salt, is one such authentic Indian pleasure. Lassi is well-known not only for its delicious taste but also for the numerous health benefits that this wondrous drink provides.

Lassi in a kulhar

In Punjab, India, Lassi is a creamy, frothy yoghurt-based drink made with water, spices, seasonings, and other fruits. The name Lassi comes from the Sanskrit word lasika, which means saliva-like. Lassi comes in both sweet and savoury varieties. It is a genuinely ancient drink that is likely one of the first smoothies ever invented. It is thought to have originated in Punjab and Multan, India, in approximately 1000 BC.

Mathani, a wooden churner or whisk, was traditionally used to make Lassi. Most individuals nowadays use a steel whisk or a blender. It is traditionally served in a kulhar, a handle-less clay cup with extra malai spooned on top before serving. The drink has expanded around the world, particularly in Great Britain and former British Empire countries.

Lassi is made from yogurt by churning through mathani

Different types of lassis

Sweet Lassi 

A sweet Lassi is a lassi with sugar, rosewater, lemon, strawberry or other fruit juices added to it. Rajasthan and Gujarat in India, as well as the Sindh area of Pakistan, are known for their saffron lassis. Makkhaniya Lassi is Lassi with butter lumps added to it. It’s usually thick and creamy, similar to a milkshake.

Mango Lassi with saffron garnish

Salty Lassi 

In the Indian subcontinent, the traditional namkeen (or salty) Lassi is more popular. It’s made by combining yoghurt with water and a pinch of salt. The finished product is known as salted Lassi. 

Bhang Lassi

Bhang Lassi is a cannabis infused drink made with bhang, a liquid cannabis derivative that has effects comparable to other cannabis edibles. It is legal in many regions of India and is primarily sold around Holi, when bhang pakoras are also served. Uttar Pradesh is recognised for having licenced bhang shops, where one may buy bhang goods and enjoy bhang Lassi in a variety of locations.

Bhang lassi during the holi festival

Numerous benefits 

It is rich in milk and has a relaxing effect. It aids digestion with lactobacillus, which lubricates the intestines and smooths out the entire digestive process. It is also a good source of prebiotics, which ensure a person’s overall well-being and health. It aids in the conversion of food into energy and ensures high energy levels due to the inclusion of proteins, vitamins, minerals, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and other vital enzymes. It’s also high in lactic acid and vitamin D, both of which aid in strengthening the immune system. This improved immune system speeds up the metabolism and eventually aids in weight loss.

The Lassi’s relaxing influence can help you avoid sunstroke. Healthy protein aids in the development of muscle mass and increases bone density. It’s a combination of water and curd that’s five times more hydrating than any soda-based beverage and can aid with diarrhoea and stomach infections. The vitamins and minerals in Lassi are excellent for maintaining a healthy electrolyte balance in the body.

Aside from the numerous health benefits, Lassi is a versatile treat to which you may add your touch to make it more intriguing. There are a plethora of fruits, spices, and herbs that may be added to the traditional Lassi to give it a new twist. Mango Lassi is the most popular summer combination, but you may also add avocado, papaya, banana, berries, or even chocolate to add richness. To spice things up, you can add black salt, red chilli powder, cheat masala, garam masala, kesar, cinnamon, or cardamom, as well as fresh herbs like coriander, mint, or even basil.

Healthy strawberry and coconut Lassi

The Indian culinary legacy is a treasure trove of incredible combinations, and these ancient blends have become inextricably linked to our daily lives. The adoration for lassi goes beyond words, from being a daily dose of health to a hearty party special.

Simran Jain 

10 May 2022