Afghani Dhoog Recipe – Cucumber Mint Buttermilk (Chaas)
Description:
Afghani Dhoog, also known as Doogh, is a refreshing and flavorful twist on the traditional Afghan yogurt drink. This chilled beverage combines creamy yogurt with the cooling freshness of mint leaves, the crunch of cucumber, and a hint of spices. Often likened to Chaas in India, this easy-to-make drink is a perfect remedy for hot summer days. Its combination of textures and flavors pairs wonderfully with rich, spicy meals, or can simply be enjoyed as a light, standalone snack.
Recipe Details
| Cuisine | Afghan |
|---|---|
| Course | Snack |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 10 minutes |
| Servings | 2 glasses |
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Curd (Dahi/Yogurt) | 2 cups |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 1/4 cup |
| Cucumber, peeled and chopped | 1 cup |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ice Cubes | A few |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~90 kcal |
| Protein | ~4 g |
| Fat | ~2 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~8 g |
| Fiber | ~0.8 g |
| Sodium | ~150 mg |
| Calcium | ~150 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by peeling and chopping the cucumber into small pieces. Wash the mint leaves thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. -
-
Blend the Drink:
In a high-speed blender (preferably a tall jar), combine the yogurt, mint leaves, chopped cucumber, cumin powder, salt to taste, and a few ice cubes. Use the puree function or blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. -
Adjust the Seasoning:
Taste the drink and adjust the salt or spices as necessary. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a small amount of cold water and blend again. -
Serve Chilled:
Pour the prepared Afghani Dhoog into tall serving glasses. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a sprinkle of cumin powder for added flavor and presentation. -
Pair and Enjoy:
Serve this refreshing Cucumber Mint Buttermilk alongside dishes like Lehsuni Methi Paneer or Tawa Paratha (Plain Paratha) for a complete and satisfying meal. Alternatively, enjoy it on its own as a revitalizing snack.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Dhoog:
- Choose Fresh Yogurt: Using fresh, thick yogurt will give your drink a creamy and rich texture.
- Customize the Spices: You can add a pinch of black salt or freshly cracked black pepper for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it Ahead: Prepare the Dhoog in advance and refrigerate it for an hour or two to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Experiment with Add-ons: For additional layers of flavor, try adding a few leaves of fresh dill or a dash of lemon juice.
This delightful Afghani Dhoog Recipe is more than just a drinkโitโs a celebration of summer flavors that transports you straight to the heart of Afghan cuisine. Simple to make, yet bursting with character, itโs a recipe youโll want to revisit again and again.
