Refreshing Mango Cardamom Lassi
A cooling summer drink that combines sweet mango with aromatic cardamom for the perfect afternoon refresher
This traditional Pakistani-style lassi elevates the classic yogurt drink with the tropical sweetness of fresh mango and the warm, floral notes of green cardamom. Perfect for hot summer days, this creamy beverage offers a delightful balance of tangy yogurt and natural fruit sweetness. The cardamom adds an authentic touch that transforms this simple drink into something truly special.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 4
For the Lassi Base:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt, chilled (480ml)
- 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced (about 1 cup/240ml)
- 6-8 green cardamom pods, seeds removed and ground (1 tsp ground)
- 3 tablespoons honey or to taste (45ml)
- 1/2 cup cold water (120ml)
- 1/4 cup ice cubes (60ml)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios (30ml)
- Pinch of ground cardamom
- Fresh mint leaves
- Mango chunks for serving
Instructions
Prepare Cardamom:
- Extract seeds: Gently crush cardamom pods with the flat side of a knife and remove the black seeds. Discard the green husks and grind seeds to a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
Blend Lassi:
- Combine ingredients: In a blender, add chilled yogurt, diced mango, ground cardamom, honey, and cold water. Blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds until completely smooth and frothy.
- Adjust consistency: Add ice cubes and blend for another 30 seconds. Taste and adjust sweetness with additional honey if needed. The lassi should be thick but drinkable.
Serve:
- Garnish beautifully: Pour into chilled glasses, sprinkle with chopped pistachios and a pinch of ground cardamom. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and mango chunks. Serve immediately with straws.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 145
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
Tips & Substitutions
- Mango selection: Use ripe, sweet mangoes like Alphonso or Tommy Atkins for best flavor. Frozen mango chunks work well too - just thaw slightly before blending.
- Cardamom substitute: If fresh cardamom pods aren't available, use 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom, though fresh ground gives superior flavor.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare without ice and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add ice and blend briefly before serving to refresh texture.
- Vegan option: Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or cashew cream for a dairy-free version that's equally delicious.
- Sweetness variation: Replace honey with maple syrup, dates, or sugar to suit dietary preferences. Start with less and adjust to taste.
- Storage: Best consumed immediately, but can be refrigerated for up to 6 hours. Stir well before serving as separation is natural.