Masala Chaas Recipe – Indian Spiced Buttermilk
Masala Chaas is a refreshing Indian beverage made from yogurt, chilled water, and an assortment of aromatic spices. Known for its cooling properties, Masala Chaas is especially popular during the sweltering summer months, offering a relief from the intense heat while aiding digestion. Packed with flavor, this spiced buttermilk is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, making it not just a thirst-quencher but a delightful palate cleanser as well. It’s often served alongside Indian meals, particularly in regions like Rajasthan, where the hot climate makes it an essential beverage.
Ingredients for Masala Chaas:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 3/4 cup |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Chaat Masala Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Black Salt (Kala Namak) | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Ginger, grated | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Green Chilli, finely chopped | 1 |
| Black pepper powder | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina), chopped | 5 leaves |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves, chopped | A few sprigs |
| Chilled water | 1-1/2 cups (adjustable) |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Instructions:
-
Chill the Glasses:
Start by chilling your serving glasses in the freezer for about 5 minutes before serving the Masala Chaas. This adds an extra cool factor to your drink, making it even more refreshing. -
-
Blend the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the curd, cumin powder, chaat masala powder, black salt, grated ginger, finely chopped green chilli, black pepper powder, asafoetida (hing), and salt to taste.
Add chilled water gradually, depending on the desired consistency of the drink. Mix everything well using a hand blender until smooth and well-combined. The goal is to achieve a creamy, frothy texture. -
Optional Rim Decoration:
For an added burst of flavor and a visually appealing touch, you can prepare your glasses with a flavorful edge.
Take a plate and sprinkle a bit of panchajiri, chaat masala, or jeeralu on it. Dip the rim of your chilled glass into this spice mix, ensuring the outer edge is coated with the masala. This adds both a delicious spice kick and an attractive look to your presentation. -
Serve the Masala Chaas:
Pour the chilled, spiced buttermilk into the prepared glasses.
Garnish with freshly chopped coriander (dhania) leaves and mint leaves for an added layer of freshness. You can also insert a mint leaf as a stirrer for a more vibrant look. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Masala Chaas alongside a traditional Rajasthani Dal Baati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi, and a refreshing Kachumber Salad for a delightful weekend lunch. The cool and spicy flavors of the chaas beautifully complement the richness of these Indian dishes, offering a perfect balance of taste.
Why You’ll Love Masala Chaas:
This Masala Chaas is the perfect way to hydrate while indulging in a burst of flavors. Its smooth texture, along with the subtle tang of yogurt and the spices like cumin, black salt, and mint, makes for a truly satisfying drink. Whether you’re looking for a cooling beverage to beat the heat or a traditional Indian side dish, Masala Chaas never disappoints. It not only rejuvenates but also aids in digestion, making it a great way to wind up a hearty meal.
Try this recipe at home for a wholesome and authentic Indian experience!
