Smoked Lassi: A Gourmet Twist On An All-Time Favourite

We all know Lassi as the perfect summer cooler but its benefits can b enjoyed all year round. The light, refreshing drink is perfect to settle a stomachache and give a must-needed boost to the digestive system overall. It’s also filling and nutritious so instead of reaching for the snack shelf, sipping on a glass of Lassi can help cure those hunger pangs between meals too. 

Traditionally, Lassi is pretty simple to make with a yoghurt base and added spices blended into a savoury (or sweet) beverage. But there’s an easy way to level it up into something that would impress most gourmet chefs. 

Also Read: From Avocado To Chutney: 6 Unusual Lassi Flavours To Try

Smoking foods isn’t new to Indian cuisine, from tandoor dishes to smoked dal, we’ve been using the magical effects of charcoal in our cooking for many years, but it has potential far beyond food and with this Smoked Lassi recipe you can enjoy the subtle effects of the smoke in every sip. The smoky flavour dissolves into the liquid and intensifies for a truly magical experience that is a treat for all the senses. 

Ingredients:

• 500 gm Plain Yoghurt
• To Taste Salt
• 4-6 Cups Water (Chilled)
• 1 Tbsp Fine Sugar
• ½ inch Ginger
• ¼ tsp Black Pepper Powder Optional
• ½ tsp Black Salt
• 1 tsp Roasted Cumin Seeds Powder
• 1 Cup Ice Cubes or Crushed Ice
• 1 tbsp Fresh Mint Leaves
• 5-6 Fresh Mint Leaves for Garnishing
• 3-4 Ice Cubes
• ½ tsp Cumin Seeds
• 1 tbsp Oil/Ghee

For smoking:

• 2-3 Aluminium Foil (To cover the Drinks, while smoking)
• 1 Burnt Charcoal

Method:

• In a blender, add all the ingredients for the lassi and blend them into a smooth consistency.
• Pour the lassi mixture into a large jar or bowl and place a small steel bowl in the centre.
• This bowl should be above the liquid line with no lassi flowing into it. 
• Into that bowl drop hot charcoal and pour ghee over the top. It should start smoking immediately.
• Cover the whole container with a lid or aluminium foil to help infuse the smoke.
• Leave it for 5-10 minutes. 
• Your smoked Lassi is ready to serve!