Spiced Buttermilk
A refreshing and savory Indian yogurt drink, also known as Chaas. Lightly spiced with roasted cumin, fresh ginger, and herbs, it's the perfect cooling beverage to aid digestion and beat the summer heat.
For 4 servings
Dry roast the cumin seeds.
Place the cumin seeds in a small, dry pan over low-medium heat. Toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become fragrant and slightly darker. Be careful not to burn them.
TIPRoasting cumin seeds unlocks their nutty, aromatic flavor, which is key to authentic chaas.Grind the roasted cumin.
Let the roasted cumin seeds cool completely, then grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle.
Whisk the buttermilk and spices.
- In a large bowl or pitcher, pour in the chilled buttermilk.
- Add the freshly ground roasted cumin powder, grated ginger, chopped mint, and coriander leaves.
- Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice.
- Whisk everything together until well combined. If you prefer a thinner consistency, whisk in the chilled water.
Chill and serve.
For the best flavor, let the spiced buttermilk chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes. Pour into glasses and serve cold.
TIPYou can garnish with a few extra mint or coriander leaves before serving.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use chilled buttermilk and water for the most refreshing drink.
- 2For a frothy texture, you can blend the mixture in a blender for 30 seconds instead of whisking.
- 3Adjust the amount of ginger and herbs to your personal preference.
- 4This drink is best consumed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace the dairy buttermilk with a plant-based yogurt alternative. Thin it out with water to get the right consistency.
jainJain
Omit the ginger. You can add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for a savory flavor.
quickQuick
Use 1/2 teaspoon of pre-made roasted cumin powder instead of roasting and grinding whole seeds to save time.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Digestive Aid
The probiotics in buttermilk support a healthy gut microbiome, helping with digestion and preventing issues like bloating.
Hydrating & Cooling
An excellent source of hydration, this drink helps replenish fluids and has a natural cooling effect on the body, making it perfect for hot weather.
Rich in Calcium
Buttermilk is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Low in Fat
Made with low-fat buttermilk, this beverage is a light and healthy option compared to other dairy drinks.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. It's a great source of probiotics which aid digestion, and it's hydrating. Using low-fat buttermilk keeps it low in calories and fat. It's a traditional remedy for cooling the body.
