Mango Lassi is a refreshing and creamy Indian drink that perfectly combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the tanginess of yogurt. This beloved beverage is a favorite around the world for its smooth texture and delightful flavors, making it a perfect treat on warm days or anytime you crave something cool and fruity. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast drink, a midday refresher, or a delicious companion to spicy meals, Mango Lassi fits the bill effortlessly. This simple recipe uses just a handful of ingredients and comes together in minutes, delivering a taste of sunshine in every sip.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This Mango Lassi recipe stands out because it uses fresh, ripe mangoes, which give it an unbeatable natural sweetness and vibrant color. Unlike store-bought versions that can be overly sweet or artificial, this homemade version offers a clean, authentic flavor that is both satisfying and nourishing. The addition of a hint of ground cardamom adds a subtle exotic twist without overpowering the mango’s bright taste. Plus, you can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking with honey or sugar, making it customizable for everyone.
Not only is Mango Lassi delicious, but it’s also packed with protein and probiotics from the yogurt, helping with digestion and keeping you energized. It’s a fantastic alternative to sugary sodas or creamy milkshakes, especially if you want a lighter, more wholesome option. If you love creamy fruit drinks, you might also enjoy the Strawberry Mango Smoothie, which combines tropical flavors in a vibrant blend.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped – Choose mangoes that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor.
- 1 cup plain yogurt – Use full-fat or low-fat yogurt based on your preference; Greek yogurt works beautifully for extra creaminess.
- 1/2 cup milk – Any milk variety works, including dairy or plant-based alternatives.
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or sugar – Adjust the sweetness to your taste. Honey adds a lovely depth, while sugar keeps it neutral.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional) – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the mango perfectly.
- Ice cubes (optional) – For a chilled, refreshing drink, especially on hot days.
How To Make Mango Lassi
Step 1: Prepare the Mangoes
Start by peeling and chopping your ripe mangoes. The sweeter and juicier the mango, the better your Mango Lassi will taste. Remove the pit and cut the fruit into chunks that are easy to blend.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a blender, add the chopped mangoes, plain yogurt, and milk. Then, add honey or sugar according to your preferred level of sweetness. If you’re using cardamom, sprinkle it in now to infuse that delightful aroma into the lassi.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Blend all the ingredients on high speed until you get a smooth, creamy consistency. This usually takes about 30 seconds to 1 minute depending on your blender. If the mixture is too thick for your liking, add a little more milk to thin it out.
Step 4: Add Ice and Serve
If you prefer your Mango Lassi chilled, add a few ice cubes and pulse the blender a couple of times to crush them slightly. Pour the lassi into glasses and serve immediately for the freshest flavor. You can garnish with a pinch of cardamom or a small mango slice for a lovely presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using unripe or sour mangoes – This will make your lassi taste tart and less sweet, so always pick mangoes that are ripe and fragrant.
- Skipping the yogurt – Yogurt is essential for the creamy texture and tangy flavor; using only milk will result in a thinner, less authentic drink.
- Adding too much sweetener – Since ripe mangoes are naturally sweet, start with less honey or sugar and adjust gradually to avoid an overly sugary lassi.
- Not blending long enough – Make sure to blend until completely smooth to avoid chunks and achieve the perfect lassi texture.
- Ignoring the cardamom – While optional, cardamom adds a wonderful depth to the flavor. Don’t skip it if you want a traditional taste.
Dietary Options
- Dairy-Free: Replace plain yogurt and milk with coconut yogurt and almond milk or oat milk for a creamy, dairy-free Mango Lassi.
- Vegan: Use plant-based yogurt and milk alternatives, and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Low-Sugar: Use unsweetened yogurt, reduce the added honey or sugar, and rely on the natural sweetness of fully ripe mangoes.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla-flavored plant-based or whey protein powder to the blender for a filling post-workout smoothie.
Seasonal Variations
- Summer: Add fresh mint leaves or a splash of lime juice for a refreshing twist during hot weather.
- Winter: Warm the lassi slightly and add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy mango spice drink.
- Festive: Garnish with crushed pistachios or toasted coconut flakes for an elegant presentation during celebrations.
- Tropical Blend: Mix in pineapple chunks or passion fruit pulp for a more complex tropical flavor profile.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Mango Lassi is best enjoyed fresh to preserve the vibrant flavors and creamy texture. However, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before serving, give it a good stir or a quick blend to recombine any separated liquids. Avoid freezing, as the yogurt may curdle and the texture can become grainy when thawed.
If you want to prepare ahead, chop the mangoes and store them in the freezer. When ready to make the lassi, use the frozen mango chunks—they will give the drink a naturally chilled consistency without needing to add ice cubes.
FAQ
What type of mangoes work best for Mango Lassi?
The best mangoes for Mango Lassi are ripe, sweet varieties like Alphonso, Ataulfo, or Haden. They have a rich, creamy flesh that blends smoothly and imparts natural sweetness.
Can I use flavored or sweetened yogurt in this recipe?
It’s best to use plain yogurt so you can control the sweetness and flavor. Flavored or sweetened yogurts might make the lassi too sweet or alter its traditional taste.
Is it necessary to add cardamom?
Cardamom is optional but highly recommended. It adds a subtle aromatic note that enhances the mango and yogurt flavors, making your lassi more authentic.
Can I make Mango Lassi without fresh mangoes?
If fresh mangoes aren’t available, you can use frozen mango chunks or high-quality mango pulp. Just ensure there’s no added sugar or preservatives for the best flavor.
Conclusion
Mango Lassi is a timeless classic that brings together the best of creamy yogurt and luscious mangoes in a simple, refreshing drink. This easy-to-make recipe highlights the natural sweetness and smooth texture of ripe mangoes, enhanced with just the right touch of cardamom and honey. Whether you’re cooling off on a hot day or craving a wholesome beverage, this Mango Lassi will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen rotation. With customizable sweetness and options for dairy-free or vegan diets, it’s a versatile treat that everyone can enjoy. Give it a try today, and savor the taste of sunny mango bliss!
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Mango Lassi
Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangoes peeled and chopped
- 1 cup plain yogurt full-fat or low-fat, Greek yogurt works beautifully
- 1/2 cup milk any variety, dairy or plant-based
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or sugar adjust sweetness to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom optional
- ice cubes optional, for chilled drink
Instructions
- Start by peeling and chopping your ripe mangoes. Remove the pit and cut the fruit into chunks that are easy to blend.
- In a blender, add the chopped mangoes, plain yogurt, and milk. Then add honey or sugar according to your preferred level of sweetness. If using cardamom, sprinkle it in now.
- Blend all the ingredients on high speed until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add more milk if the mixture is too thick.
- If desired, add a few ice cubes and pulse the blender a couple of times to crush them slightly. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Equipment
- Blender
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cup
Notes
- Use ripe and fragrant mangoes for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Adjust sweetness gradually to avoid an overly sugary drink.
- For a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute yogurt and milk with plant-based alternatives and honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 24 hours and stir before serving.
- Try seasonal variations like adding mint or lime juice in summer, or warming with cinnamon in winter.