How to Make Chaas and Other Indian Yogurt-Based Drinks

Chaas, also known as buttermilk, is a traditional Indian beverage made from yogurt. It's refreshing, nutritious, and a must-have during hot summer days. In addition to chaas, there are several other yogurt-based drinks in India that offer unique flavors and health benefits. This guide will detail how to make chaas and explore a few other delicious yogurt-based drinks.

How to Make Chaas

Chaas is a simple drink that combines yogurt and water, making it lighter than regular yogurt. Here’s a basic recipe to prepare chaas:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2-3 cups cold water
  • 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
  • Optional: A pinch of black pepper or green chilies for a spicy kick

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, add the yogurt and whisk it until smooth.
  2. Gradually add cold water to the yogurt while continuing to whisk until you achieve a smooth consistency.
  3. Add salt, roasted cumin powder, and any optional spices you prefer.
  4. Mix well and taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  5. Chill the chaas in the refrigerator or serve immediately over ice.
  6. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Chaas is not only delicious but also aids digestion and helps combat dehydration.

Other Popular Indian Yogurt-Based Drinks

1. Lassi

Lassi is a thicker, richer yogurt-based drink, usually sweetened and flavored with fruits. Here’s a simple recipe for sweet mango lassi:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/2 cup mango pulp (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup cold milk or water
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Blend all the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add ice cubes and blend again if desired.
  3. Serve chilled in a glass, garnished with a sprinkle of cardamom powder or chopped nuts.

2. Spiced Yogurt Drink (Masala Chaas)

This variation of chaas includes spices for added flavor:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2-3 cups cold water
  • 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste
  • Chopped mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Whisk the yogurt until smooth, then mix in the water.
  2. Add roasted cumin powder, black salt, and ginger paste.
  3. Stir well and taste for seasoning.
  4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

This spiced chaas offers not just hydration but also a refreshing kick that's great for digestion.

3. Kesar Pista Lassi

This rich version of lassi is perfect for festive occasions:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1/2 cup cold milk
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1-2 strands of saffron (kesar)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped pistachios
  • Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Soak saffron in a tablespoon of warm milk for 10 minutes.
  2. Blend yogurt, cold milk, sugar, and the saffron-infused milk until smooth.
  3. Add pistachios and ice cubes, then blend briefly to mix.
  4. Serve chilled