There is nothing more refreshing on a hot summer’s day than a deliciously cool beverage. Lassi (pronounced “luss-see”) is a traditional Indian drink made with yogurt and blended with different flavors and spices. It is absolutely delicious and very nutritious and healthy too. My rich and creamy Avocado Lassi is a true favorite for keeping cool on those humid afternoons. The best thing about this lassi is that it can be made in both sweet and savory versions depending upon your mood ☺.

Now I just love avocados and although they are not commonly found in traditional Indian cuisine, their buttery taste and smooth texture pairs well with Indian flavors and spices. Avocados are very healthy, they are high in dietary fiber, potassium, folate and Vitamins B6, C, E and K. Avocados are thought to promote good cardiovascular health and lower cholesterol. Avocado oil is also said to be very good for both dry hair and dry skin. Avocados are a fruit and actually part of the berry family of fruits. In India, the Hindi word for avocado is “makhanphal” or butter fruit.

When buying avocados, make sure they are still firm yet only slightly soft to the touch. The outer skin should also be blemish free. Now personally, I prefer the Hass avocado variety but the Fuerte avocado will work just as well. Do not store your avocados in the refrigerator unless they are fully ripe. Since avocados tend to oxidize and turn brown soon after they are cut opened, it’s best to use them right away and this lassi recipe is perfect for just that!


SAVORY AVOCADO LASSI

Ingredients:

1 large ripe avocado
½ cup seeded & diced cucumber (I used an English cucumber, they hold less water & don’t need to be peeled)
1½ to 2 cups thick yogurt
¼ cup milk (2% is fine)
1 tsp lime juice
½ tsp chaat masala (or kala namak or ground cumin powder)
salt & pepper, to taste
small handful of fresh cilantro leaves (to taste)
toasted unsalted pistachios pieces for garnish

[OR ½ tsp of Sichuan pink peppercorns, coarsely ground – for garnish]

METHOD:

In a blender, add about ½ cup or so of ice cubes and all of the ingredients above (except the garnish). Blend until smooth and thick, you can add more/less yogurt or milk depending upon your desired consistency. Serve in a tall glass, garnish and enjoy!

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SWEET AVOCADO LASSI

Ingredients:

1 large ripe avocado
½ cup diced apple (or pear)
1½ to 2 cups thick yogurt
¼ cup coconut milk
1 tsp lime juice
1-2 tbsp honey, to taste
¼ tsp ground cardamom powder
pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
salt, to taste
small handful of fresh mint leaves (to taste)
toasted unsalted pistachios pieces for garnish

METHOD:

In a blender, add about ½ cup or so of ice cubes and all of the ingredients above (except the garnish). Blend until smooth and thick, you can add more/less yogurt or coconut milk depending upon your desired consistency. Serve in a tall glass, garnish and enjoy!



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