Sambaram

Sambaram or Morum Vellam is Kerala’s version of buttermilk, spiced with green chillies, curry leaves, and ginger. The drink is left in the refrigerator for a few hours before being served, so the flavours from all ingredients can seep in. It's often served at the end of a meal, refreshing and energising the one consuming it. It's also known to aid digestion. Buttermilk is a popular drink all over the country. It’s known as Chaas in the North, Moru in Tamil Nadu, and Majjiga in Andhra Pradesh.

There are two standard ways of making buttermilk. It is traditionally the leftover liquid after the cream was churned when making butter. Naturally occurring bacteria leads to fermentation of milk sugars, lending buttermilk its sour taste. Today, it's made by simply diluting curd.

This simple recipe leads to a beverage packed with health benefits. It has a cooling effect on the body, especially the stomach, and is a great option to soothe the body after a spicy meal. The spices in it also help fight acidity and soothe any internal irritation. Its probiotic nature also helps fight indigestion, since it cleans out the oil and ghee coating your insides, making you feel lighter. The milk-based beverage is also rich in calcium and helps maintain healthy bones and teeth. Buttermilk also has protein, potassium, and vitamins, and is rich in antioxidants. Drinking buttermilk daily is also linked to lowering cholesterol and managing blood pressure. It helps fight dehydration and fatigue since the water, yoghurt, and salt combination replenishes fluids and electrolyte levels in the body. It’s also a boon for those with lactose intolerance, since many people with the condition are able to digest the lighter buttermilk, and enjoy its benefits.

So whether you consume it as Sambaram or Chaas, buttermilk is packed with health benefits and its daily intake is recommended by several experts.