Kesar Elaichi Lassi Recipe (Cardamom & Saffron Yogurt Drink)
A Refreshing and Aromatic Indian Delight
Kesar Elaichi Lassi is a delightful yogurt-based drink that combines the rich flavors of cardamom and saffron, offering a unique twist on traditional lassi recipes. This lassi is a perfect blend of aromatic spices and the creamy texture of yogurt, making it an ideal drink for any time of the day. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing afternoon snack or a sweet post-dinner treat, this flavorful drink never fails to satisfy your cravings. In this recipe, we will guide you step-by-step to make this luxurious Indian drink with simple ingredients.
Ingredients for Kesar Elaichi Lassi:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chilled Curd (Dahi/Yogurt) | 2 cups |
| Saffron strands | 1 pinch |
| Honey | 3 tablespoons (adjust to taste) |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds (ground to a coarse powder) | 6 pods |
| Almonds (Badam) – slivered (for garnish) | 1 tablespoon |
| Pistachios (for garnish) | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Approx.):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 26g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Servings:
1 serving
Cuisine:
Indian
Course:
Snack
Diet:
Vegetarian
Instructions for Kesar Elaichi Lassi:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Ensure that the curd (yogurt) is chilled as this adds to the refreshing nature of the drink. Soak a pinch of saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm water for a few minutes to release the color and flavor. Set aside. -
Blend the Lassi:
In a blender or mixer, add the chilled curd, soaked saffron strands, honey, and the ground cardamom powder. Blend everything together until smooth and creamy. -
Adjust the Sweetness and Thickness:
Taste the lassi and adjust the sweetness by adding more honey if needed. For a thinner consistency, you can add some water or more yogurt to suit your preference. Most lassis are thick, but the consistency is truly up to your liking. -
Serve and Garnish:
Pour the blended lassi into a serving glass. Garnish with slivered almonds and pistachios for an added touch of crunch and flavor. -
Chill and Serve:
Serve your Kesar Elaichi Lassi chilled. This drink pairs wonderfully with a meal of Chana Masala and Bhatura or can be enjoyed as a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of cardamom and saffron in the lassi gives it an aromatic and refreshing profile that is both delightful and satisfying.
Tips for Making the Best Kesar Elaichi Lassi:
- Adjust the Sweetness: Lassi is usually served sweet, but you can easily adjust the amount of honey or any other sweetener to suit your taste.
- Chilled Yogurt: For the best texture and taste, use chilled yogurt, as it adds a cooling element to the drink.
- Saffron: Saffron is the star of this recipe, so be sure to soak it in warm water to extract its full color and flavor. This also gives the lassi its beautiful golden hue.
- Consistency: If you like your lassi thinner, simply add more water or milk to the mix.
Why You’ll Love Kesar Elaichi Lassi:
Kesar Elaichi Lassi brings the perfect balance of refreshing yogurt and aromatic spices, making it an indulgent yet healthy treat. The creamy texture of curd and the richness of saffron and cardamom elevate this drink, making it ideal for a summer afternoon or as a comforting post-meal refreshment. Its natural sweetness and spice infusions are perfect for those who enjoy a drink with depth and flavor.
This traditional Indian drink is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to fit your preferred taste, whether you like it thick or thin, sweet or less sweet. The nuts used for garnish provide a satisfying crunch, adding a finishing touch to this delightful beverage.
