Type | Yogurt beverage |
---|---|
Place of origin | Indian subcontinent |
Associated cuisine | Punjabi, Indian, Pakistani |
Serving temperature | Chilled |
Main ingredients | Yogurt, water |
Lassi (pronounced [ləsːi]) is a yogurt–based beverage with a smoothie-like consistency.[1][2] It has been called "the most popular and traditional yogurt-based drink" in India.[3] It has also been described as the form in which yogurt "is most cherished and unbeatably popular in [...] Punjab", its "best-loved summer drink", and "the air conditioner of the Punjab".[4]
Lassi originated in the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent.[3] The word lassi means yogurt mixed with water in Punjabi and Hindi-Urdu.[1][5]
Lassi is prepared by blending yogurt, water, and spices. In Punjab, the yogurt is traditionally made from water buffalo milk.[4] However, variations of lassi can be prepared in different ways. Cumin and cardamom are the most common spices added to lassi.[6] Lassi is traditionally served in a clay cup known as kulhar.[6]