As the sun blazes across the Indian subcontinent, turning streets into shimmering heatscapes and sending temperatures soaring, there’s one beloved antidote that locals have turned to for generations—lassi. This creamy, chilled yogurt drink is more than just a refreshing treat. It’s a cultural staple, a hydrating hero, and a gut-friendly tonic that makes summer not only bearable, but even a little bit sweet.
Walk through any Indian town or city during the hotter months, and you’re bound to spot someone sipping a tall glass of lassi. Served frothy and cool, sometimes in traditional clay cups, it’s the kind of drink that soothes you from the inside out. It’s no wonder that in the peak of summer, lassi stands become gathering spots, where locals queue up for their midday reprieve from the sweltering heat.
At its heart, lassi is made from just a few humble ingredients: yogurt, water, and a touch of sugar or salt. But its simplicity hides a host of benefits, especially in the summertime. First and foremost, yogurt is a natural coolant. Its probiotic nature promotes healthy digestion, something that’s particularly helpful when soaring temperatures tend to mess with appetites and gut health. Add to that the fact that yogurt is rich in calcium, protein, and B vitamins, and you’ve got a nourishing, revitalizing drink that works harder than most.
Lassi also helps with hydration, a crucial concern during hot weather. In salted versions, it replenishes electrolytes and sodium lost through sweat—acting as a natural rehydration solution. Sweet lassi, on the other hand, offers a quick energy boost, especially when spiced with cardamom or rose water, which are both considered cooling agents in traditional Ayurvedic practices.
But beyond the science, there’s something deeply comforting about drinking lassi. It’s part of India’s culinary rhythm—a drink passed down through kitchens and street vendors alike. Whether enjoyed plain, sweetened, or infused with fruits like mango, lassi carries the essence of Indian summers in every sip.
So when the heat feels relentless and the sun unyielding, consider reaching for a glass of lassi. It’s not just a drink. It’s a tradition, a remedy, and a little moment of chill in a season that demands it.
Recipe for Salty Lassi
Ingredients
- 2 cups chilled yoghurt
- ½ – 1 cup water
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to tast)
- Sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon roasted and ground cumin powder, plus more for garnish
Instructions
Place yoghurt, ½ cup water, salt and roasted cumin powder in a jug. Whisk together till smooth. Add more water if a more liquid consistency is preferred. Taste and add more salt or cumin seeds as required. If you feel the lassi is too sour, add a tablespoon of sugar to balance it out. The lassi can also be made in a blender.
Pour into glasses and add ice cubes. Garnish with roasted cumin powder and serve cold.
