There is something irresistibly refreshing and indulgent about a perfectly balanced mango lassi, and the Creamy Mango Lassi with Cardamom Recipe captures that magic in every sip. Imagine the luscious sweetness of ripe mangoes blended with the tangy creaminess of whole milk yogurt, kissed by the warm, fragrant hint of cardamom. This vibrant drink isn’t just a beverage; it’s a little tropical escape that you can whip up in minutes, perfect for cooling down on a warm day or adding a bright note to any meal. Whether you’re new to lassi or a longtime fan, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for an authentic and utterly delightful mango treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Creamy Mango Lassi with Cardamom Recipe is simple, but each one plays an indispensable role in building that creamy texture and vibrant flavor. From the juicy sweetness of fresh mangoes to the subtle floral notes of cardamom, these staples come together beautifully to create a luscious and refreshing drink.
- Frozen mango chunks: Provide a chilly base that thickens the lassi without watering it down.
- Fresh ripe mangoes: Bring natural sweetness and a bright, fresh mango flavor that can’t be beaten.
- Plain whole milk yogurt: Adds creaminess and a gentle tang that balances the fruit’s sweetness perfectly.
- Milk: Loosens the texture just enough so the lassi is silky and drinkable.
- Granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness to taste, allowing you to customize the perfect balance.
- Ground cardamom: Infuses the lassi with a warm, aromatic spice that elevates every sip.
How to Make Creamy Mango Lassi with Cardamom Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Mangoes
Start by slicing each mango vertically just beside the center to avoid the pit. Making several cuts across the pulp side helps create cubes that are easy to scoop out. Pushing from the back turns the mango inside out, giving you perfect cubes ready for blending. This method ensures you get the most luscious mango flesh without wasting a single bite.
Step 2: Blend the Fresh Mango Cubes
Place the carefully cubed fresh mangoes in your blender and pulse until they become a smooth, thick puree. This smooth base is crucial for the creamy texture and intense mango flavor that defines this recipe.
Step 3: Add Frozen Mango and Dairy
To the fresh mango puree, add the frozen mango chunks, whole milk yogurt, and milk. Blend everything together until you reach a silky consistency with no lumps. The frozen mango ensures your lassi is refreshingly chilled and thick while the yogurt adds that signature creaminess.
Step 4: Season with Cardamom and Sweeten
Sprinkle in the fragrant ground cardamom to infuse the drink with a subtle, exotic flavor that’s unmistakably inviting. Then, gradually add granulated sugar, blending and tasting as you go until the sweetness suits your preference perfectly. The cardamom and sugar marry beautifully to balance the mango’s bold fruitiness with a gentle warmth.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Pour the luscious lassi into glasses and consider topping each with a few small mango cubes for an extra burst of fruitiness and visual appeal. The best part is enjoying this creamy, chilled delight right away while it’s at its freshest and most vibrant.
How to Serve Creamy Mango Lassi with Cardamom Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes take your Creamy Mango Lassi with Cardamom Recipe from lovely to show-stopping. Freshly diced mangoes sprinkled on top not only add a pop of color but provide delightful texture contrasts. A light dusting of cardamom powder or a few mint leaves can create that extra aromatic lift that makes each sip even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes
This lassi pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Think spicy Indian snacks like samosas, pakoras, or a side of tangy chutney to complement the creamy sweetness. It also makes a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats or lightly spiced rice bowls, offering a soothing counterbalance to bolder flavors on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special gathering, serve your lassi in chilled glasses with colorful straws or small edible flowers floating on top to impress your guests. Alternatively, try layering the lassi with a drizzle of honey or pureed berries to create a visually stunning swirl effect. Presentation is a playful way to elevate this already fantastic drink.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover lassi, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the texture may thicken slightly as it chills, so a quick stir before serving will bring back that smooth, creamy consistency you love.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this Creamy Mango Lassi with Cardamom Recipe since the dairy component can separate and create a grainy texture upon thawing. To enjoy chilled lassi later, it’s best to refrigerate and consume fresh.
Reheating
This lassi is best served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating. Reheating will spoil the fresh, vibrant flavors and creamy texture that make it so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
While you can use sweetened yogurt, it’s best to stick with plain whole milk yogurt to control the sweetness and keep that classic tangy balance. You can always add sugar gradually to achieve your desired sweetness.
Is it okay to use frozen mango only?
Frozen mango alone works for a quick lassi, but combining fresh ripe mango with frozen chunks produces a richer flavor and better texture. The fresh mango brings brightness, while the frozen mango keeps your drink icy and refreshing.
Can I make this lassi vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk yogurt with coconut or almond-based yogurt and use a plant milk alternative. The mango and cardamom flavors remain just as vibrant and delicious.
What if I don’t have cardamom?
Cardamom is a key flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it or try a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a different but still wonderful aromatic note. However, cardamom truly elevates the lassi to a more authentic taste.
How thick should the lassi be?
The ideal texture is thick and creamy but still pourable. Adjust the amount of milk to your preference—less milk for a smoothie-like thickness, more for a lighter drink.
Final Thoughts
Making this Creamy Mango Lassi with Cardamom Recipe at home is one of those simple joys that brings a burst of sunshine into your day. It’s a drink that feels both nourishing and indulgent, fresh yet comforting. Whether as a cooling treat or a delicious complement to your favorite meal, it’s bound to become a beloved staple you’ll reach for again and again. Don’t wait to try it—your taste buds will thank you!
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Creamy Mango Lassi with Cardamom Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Mango Lassi recipe combines ripe fresh mangoes with creamy yogurt, a touch of milk, and aromatic cardamom to create a sweet, smooth, and cooling Indian beverage that’s perfect for warm days or as a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Fresh Mangoes
- 3 ripe fresh mangoes
Frozen Ingredients
- 1 16-ounce package frozen mango chunks
Dairy
- 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk
Spices & Sweeteners
- 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions
- Slice the Mangoes: Carefully slice the ripe mangoes vertically just to the side of the center pit to avoid the large flat seed inside. This will give you clean mango halves.
- Cube the Mangoes: Using a knife, make several crosswise cuts on the pulp side creating cubes without cutting through the skin. Push the mango half from the skin side to turn it inside out, then carefully cut out the cubes of mango flesh.
- Blend Fresh Mango Cubes: Add the freshly cut mango cubes into a blender and process until smooth, forming the base for your lassi.
- Add Remaining Ingredients and Blend: To the blender, add the frozen mango chunks, plain whole milk yogurt, milk, and ground cardamom. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Sweeten the Lassi: Taste the mango lassi and add 2 to 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar gradually until the desired sweetness is reached. Blend briefly to combine.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the mango lassi into glasses and garnish with diced fresh mango on top for an appealing presentation. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Use ripe mangoes to ensure natural sweetness and rich flavor.
- Adjust sugar quantity to your preferred sweetness level or substitute with honey or a sugar alternative if desired.
- For a thinner consistency, add a bit more milk; for a thicker lassi, reduce the milk or use more yogurt.
- Chill the fresh mango cubes before blending if you prefer an extra cold drink without dilution from ice.
- Ground cardamom adds traditional Indian flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness; leftovers can be kept refrigerated for up to 24 hours but may separate.
