Creamy Rambutan Lassi
A tropical twist on the classic Indian lassi, this drink blends sweet, juicy rambutan with creamy yogurt for a refreshingly smooth and exotic treat. Made in minutes, it's the perfect way to cool down on a hot day or add a fruity finish to any meal.
For 2 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Prepare the rambutan.
1.Use a paring knife to make a shallow cut around the middle of each rambutan.2.Twist the top half off to reveal the fruit and remove the seed from the center.3.Roughly chop the peeled fruit into chunks. - mix · ~2 min
Blend the lassi.
1.Add the chopped rambutan, chilled yogurt, milk, honey, and rose water to a blender.2.Add the ice cubes and blend on high speed until perfectly smooth and creamy.3.Taste and adjust sweetness, adding more honey if desired.TIPIf the lassi is too thick, add a splash more cold milk. If too thin, add another ice cube or tablespoon of yogurt and blend again. - serve
Pour and serve immediately.
Pour the lassi into chilled glasses and serve right away while it's icy cold.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Chill your yogurt and milk beforehand for the coldest, creamiest lassi without diluting it.
- 2For a silkier texture, strain the yogurt through a fine-mesh sieve before blending.
- 3If rambutan isn't perfectly ripe, add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavor.
- 4Use a high-speed blender and blend for a full 60 seconds to break down the rambutan fibers completely.
- 5To store, refrigerate in an airtight jar for up to 6 hours; whisk briefly before serving as separation is natural.
- 6Garnish with a pinch of ground cardamom or a few reserved rambutan wedges for visual appeal.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Swap yogurt for full-fat coconut yogurt and use plant-based milk (like oat or almond) — the coconut pairs beautifully with rambutan's tropical notes.
Low SugarLow-Sugar
Omit the honey entirely if the rambutan is very sweet, or replace it with 1–2 soft pitted dates for natural sweetness with a lower glycemic impact.
SpicedSpiced
Add ¼ teaspoon of ground cardamom and a pinch of black pepper for a warm, aromatic variation that echoes traditional Indian lassi spices.
Protein BoostedProtein-Boosted
Blend in a small scoop of unflavored protein powder or a tablespoon of chia seeds (soaked) — great for a post-workout refreshment without overwhelming the fruit flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Probiotics
The live cultures in plain yogurt support gut health and digestion.
Natural Hydration
Rambutan is high in water content, making this lassi a great way to stay hydrated in warm weather.
Good Source of Calcium
Yogurt and milk provide calcium for strong bones and teeth.
Low in Added Sugar
The honey is adjustable, and rambutan contributes natural sweetness, so you can keep added sugars minimal.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but drain the syrup and rinse the fruit lightly to avoid an overly sweet drink — you may also need less honey.
