As the summer sun begins to blaze, there’s nothing quite like a refreshingly cold drink to cool you down. Recently, my quest for the ultimate summer beverage led me to rediscover the beloved Mango Lassi, an incredible Indian delight that combines the tropical sweetness of ripe mangoes with the creamy tang of yogurt. The moment I blended those fresh ingredients, the velvety texture and the alluring aroma of cardamom transported me to bustling Indian markets filled with vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors.
This creamy Mango Lassi is not just a drink; it’s a celebration of sunshine in a glass, quick to whip up and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re using juicy fresh mangoes, frozen fruit, or even canned mango pulp, this recipe offers endless versatility that any home cook can appreciate. Busy weeknight? No problem! Fancy a sophisticated treat for guests? You got it!
Join me as I dive into this delightful recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for hot days, and a true testament to the magic of homemade goodness.
Why is Mango Lassi a Must-Try?
Refreshing and perfect for hot days, this Mango Lassi is your go-to summer drink!
Easy to make: With just a few ingredients, you can blend a delicious treat in minutes.
Versatile options: Use fresh, frozen, or canned mangoes—ideal for any situation.
Creamy texture: Achieve that indulgent, smooth consistency, making it feel like a decadent dessert.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings for an instant hit, complementing spicy dishes or enjoyed solo!
Mango Lassi Ingredients
Note: Gather these ingredients to create a refreshing Mango Lassi that embodies the spirit of summer.
For the Lassi
- Mangoes – Use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor; frozen mangoes can work in a pinch.
- Curd/Yogurt – Adds creaminess; opt for Indian dahi or Greek yogurt for a tart touch but feel free to adjust with extra milk.
- Milk – Helps achieve the perfect pouring consistency; substitute with almond or coconut milk for a lighter version.
- Sugar – Sweeten to your taste; try honey or maple syrup as a natural alternative.
- Cardamom Powder – Recommended for an aromatic lift; it’s optional, but don’t skip it if aiming for authentic flavor!
For the Garnish
- Chopped Nuts (e.g., pistachios) – Adds a delightful crunch and visual charm to your drink.
- Saffron – This optional ingredient adds both color and a subtle Aroma, making your Mango Lassi even more special.
How to Make Mango Lassi
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Chill Ingredients: Start by ensuring that your mangoes, yogurt, and milk are well-chilled. This step is essential for creating that refreshingly cold beverage we all crave on a hot day.
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Prepare Mangoes: If you’re using fresh mangoes, rinse them, then peel and chop into small chunks. Chill these delicious pieces in the refrigerator for added freshness.
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Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine those juicy mango chunks with yogurt, milk (or ice, if you prefer a thicker drink), sugar, and cardamom powder. Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
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Adjust Consistency: Taste your Mango Lassi and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or milk/ice as needed. Blend again briefly to incorporate any adjustments so every sip is delightful.
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Serve Chilled: Pour the luscious mixture into tall glasses, then garnish with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of saffron for that touch of elegance. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness!
Optional: Drizzle a bit of honey on top for extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mango Lassis are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the mangoes by washing, peeling, and chopping them up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you’re using frozen mangoes, there’s no need for prep—just store them in the freezer until you’re ready to blend. When it’s time to enjoy your creamy Mango Lassi, simply blend the prepared mangoes with yogurt, milk, sugar, and cardamom powder, adding ice if desired. This way, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing drink with minimal effort, ready to delight your taste buds!
What to Serve with Mango Lassi?
This creamy drink pairs perfectly with savory meals, creating a delightful balance that brightens any dining experience.
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Spicy Chicken Tikka: The rich, spicy flavors of chicken tikka contrast beautifully with the cooling essence of mango lassi, creating a palate-pleasing combination.
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Vegetable Samosas: These crispy, flaky pastries filled with tender spiced potatoes and peas are a delightful counterpart, perfect for dipping and offsetting the smooth lassi.
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Chaat: Whimsical street food dishes like aloo chaat or bhel puri benefit from the refreshing lassi, providing a creamy foil to tangy and spicy notes.
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Grilled Tandoori Fish: Its smoky flavor and tender texture are effortlessly complemented by the lassi, refreshing the senses with every sip.
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Pulao: A fragrant rice dish infused with spices and veggies, lightly seasoned to enhance the lassi’s sweetness and creamy texture.
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Pakoras: These crispy, savory fritters made from vegetables or paneer offer a satisfying crunch, while the lassi’s creaminess tempers the spices.
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Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing side with a hint of tang, cucumber salad brightens the meal while enhancing the lassi’s cooling qualities.
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Cardamom Chai: For dessert, serve a warm cup of cardamom chai; the flavors meld beautifully with the lassi, creating a pleasant finale to any meal.
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Honey Drizzled Fruit Salad: End on a sweet note; this mix of juicy fruit contrasts with the lassi, delivering a burst of freshness and natural sweetness.
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Almond Biscotti: A crunchy companion, almond biscotti pairs well with lassi for a satisfying yet light finale, offering a delightful textural contrast.
Mango Lassi Variations
Customize your Mango Lassi with these delightful twists and substitutes that will elevate your drink to new heights!
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Frozen Fruit: Use frozen mango chunks for a chillier treat—perfect for those last-minute cravings.
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Canned Convenience: Swap fresh mangoes for canned mango pulp; just adjust sweetness to taste!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace yogurt with coconut yogurt and milk with almond milk for a luscious, plant-based version.
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Flavored Twist: Add a splash of vanilla extract for a sweet, aromatic surprise that pairs perfectly with mango.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in almond butter or peanut butter for a creamy texture boost and delicious nutty flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of chili powder or cayenne for a surprising heat contrasting the sweetness.
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Sweeteners: Try maple syrup or agave nectar instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness that complements the mango.
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Extra Creaminess: Blend in a banana for added creaminess and natural sweetness—yum!
With these variations, you can explore an array of tastes and textures, transforming your Mango Lassi into a unique treat every time!
How to Store and Freeze Mango Lassi
Fridge: Store Mango Lassi in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving, as separation may occur.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Mango Lassi in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Blend again for a refreshing slushy treat!
Reheating: It’s best served cold, so no reheating is necessary. If frozen, let the cubes thaw in the fridge or blend directly into smoothies for a quick treat.
Tip: Always consume freshly made Mango Lassi for the best flavor and texture, although leftovers can be deliciously revived!
Expert Tips for Making Mango Lassi
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Chill Everything: Ensure your ingredients are well-chilled before blending. This keeps your Mango Lassi refreshingly cool and enjoyable on hot summer days.
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Choose Ripe Mangoes: For the best flavor, always select ripe, sweet mangoes. If they are not in season, opt for frozen mangoes or quality canned mango pulp as alternatives.
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Blend in Stages: If using fibrous mangoes, blend them first before adding yogurt. This ensures a perfectly smooth texture for your Mango Lassi.
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Control Consistency: Blend just until combined after adding yogurt. Over-blending can create a slimy texture, which we want to avoid.
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Experiment with Sweeteners: Feel free to adjust the sweetness using honey or agave syrup instead of traditional sugar; this can enhance the drink’s flavor while keeping it natural.
Mango Lassi Recipe FAQs
What type of mangoes should I use?
For the best flavor, always choose ripe, sweet mangoes that yield slightly to pressure. These will create a luscious, flavorful base for your Mango Lassi. If fresh mangoes aren’t available, frozen mangoes or even high-quality canned mango pulp can serve as excellent substitutes.
How long can I store Mango Lassi?
Mango Lassi is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before serving, be sure to stir it well, as separation may occur. For maximum freshness, aim to drink it the same day.
Can I freeze Mango Lassi?
Absolutely! To freeze Mango Lassi, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can later blend these cubes with a splash of milk or water for a refreshing slushy treat.
What should I do if my Mango Lassi is too thick?
If your Mango Lassi ends up too thick, no worries! Simply add a splash of milk or water and blend again until you achieve your desired consistency. Start with a small amount and gradually add more if needed to find that perfect creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for Mango Lassi?
Yes, Mango Lassi can be adjusted to fit various dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, replace yogurt with coconut yogurt and milk with almond milk or any nut milk of your choice. If you’re concerned about sugar, try using natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, adjusting to your taste. Always check for any allergies related to nuts or dairy if serving to guests.
Mango Lassi Bliss: Your Creamy Escape from Fast Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by ensuring that your mangoes, yogurt, and milk are well-chilled.
- If using fresh mangoes, rinse them, peel, and chop into small chunks.
- In a blender, combine the mango chunks with yogurt, milk, sugar, and cardamom powder. Blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or milk and blend briefly.
- Pour into tall glasses and garnish with chopped nuts and saffron.