Classic Masala Chaas
This Classic Masala Chaas is a refreshing Indian spiced buttermilk, perfect for cooling down or aiding digestion. It's savory, tangy, and infused with aromatic spices like cumin, ginger, and mint.
For 2 servings
Gather all your ingredients. Finely chop the fresh cilantro and mint leaves. Grate or finely mince the ginger, and finely chop the green chili if using.
In a blender or a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled plain buttermilk and cold water.
Add the roasted cumin powder, black salt, regular salt, grated ginger, and chopped green chili (if using) to the buttermilk mixture.
Add the finely chopped fresh cilantro and mint leaves to the mixture.
Blend on high speed for 30-60 seconds until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is slightly frothy. If using a whisk, whisk vigorously for 2-3 minutes.
Taste the chaas and adjust seasonings if necessary. You might want to add more salt, black salt, or a pinch more cumin powder to your preference.
Pour the Masala Chaas into serving glasses. Garnish each glass with a few fresh mint leaves or a sprig of cilantro.
Serve immediately, well chilled. For best results, chill for at least 15-20 minutes before serving if not already cold.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra smooth chaas, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve after blending to remove any ginger or chili bits, though traditionally it's served with them.
- 2Always use very cold buttermilk and water for the most refreshing experience. You can even add a couple of ice cubes if serving immediately on a very hot day.
- 3Adjust the consistency by adding more or less water. Some prefer a thicker chaas, while others like it thinner.
- 4To enhance the roasted cumin flavor, lightly toast whole cumin seeds in a dry pan until fragrant, then grind them into a fine powder just before use.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Chaas
Increase the amount of green chili or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Ginger Lime ChaasGinger-Lime Chaas
Add 1/2 teaspoon of fresh lime juice and an extra 1/2 inch of grated ginger for a brighter, more pungent flavor profile.
Vegan ChaasVegan Chaas
Substitute dairy buttermilk with a plant-based alternative like unsweetened almond milk or soy milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (let sit for 5 minutes to curdle slightly).
Why this is on our healthy list.
Aids Digestion
Buttermilk contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut microbiome, while spices like cumin and ginger are known for their digestive properties, helping to alleviate bloating and indigestion.
Cooling & Hydrating
Being a liquid-based drink, Masala Chaas helps in hydration, and its cool temperature combined with the properties of buttermilk makes it an excellent body coolant, especially in hot weather.
Rich in Nutrients
Buttermilk is a good source of calcium, vitamin B12, and potassium. It provides essential nutrients without the high fat content often found in other dairy products.
Frequently asked questions
Buttermilk is the liquid left after churning butter from cream. Chaas, or Masala Chaas, is a spiced beverage made from buttermilk (or yogurt diluted with water), seasoned with various spices and herbs like cumin, ginger, and cilantro.
