Mattha
A refreshing and savory yogurt drink from Maharashtra, lightly spiced with ginger, green chilies, and roasted cumin. This traditional cooler is the perfect antidote to a hot day and aids digestion.
For 4 servings
5 steps.
- 1
In a mortar and pestle, crush the ginger and green chili into a coarse paste
- a.This helps release their flavors more effectively than chopping.
- 2
In a large bowl, add the plain yogurt
- a.Using a wire whisk or a traditional wooden churner (ravi), whisk the yogurt for about 1 minute until it is completely smooth and free of lumps.
- 3
Gradually pour in the chilled water while continuing to whisk gently
- a.Continue until the water is fully incorporated and you have a smooth, thin liquid.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add the crushed ginger-chili paste, finely chopped coriander leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, regular salt, sugar (if using), and asafoetida to the bowl.
- 5
Stir everything together until well combined
- a.Taste and adjust the salt if needed. Pour into glasses and serve immediately for the best taste and frothy texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic texture, use a wire whisk or a traditional wooden churner (ravi) instead of a blender. Blending can sometimes make the mattha too thin or cause it to separate.
- 2Use fresh, full-fat yogurt for a creamier taste. If your yogurt is very thick, you might need to add a little more water.
- 3Always use chilled yogurt and chilled water for the most refreshing experience. You can also chill the final drink for 15-20 minutes before serving.
- 4If you prefer a completely smooth drink without any bits of ginger or chili, you can strain the mattha through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Tempered Mattha (Tadkewala Mattha)
Heat 1 tsp of ghee in a small pan. Add 1/2 tsp mustard seeds and a pinch of asafoetida. Once the seeds pop, add a few curry leaves. Pour this tempering over the prepared mattha for an extra layer of flavor.
Minty MatthaMinty Mattha
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the coriander for a cooler, more refreshing taste.
Garlic MatthaGarlic Mattha
Crush one small clove of garlic along with the ginger and chili for a pungent kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Promotes Gut Health
The probiotics in yogurt help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, aiding digestion and preventing issues like bloating and indigestion.
Natural Hydrator
With its high water content and electrolytes from salts, Mattha is an excellent drink for rehydrating the body, especially during hot weather.
Body Coolant
Traditionally consumed to combat heat, Mattha has a natural cooling effect on the body, making it a perfect summer beverage.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Mattha is very healthy. It's a natural probiotic from the yogurt, which is excellent for gut health. It aids digestion, helps in hydration, and is a good source of calcium and B vitamins.