Lassi

From ArticleWorld

Lassi is a drink that is found in southern Asia. Lassi originated in Punjab India and Pakistan. It is made by mixing yogurt with water, salt, and spices until the mixture is frothy and foamy. The yogurt part of Lassi is mentioned in the old Indian texts and so is buttermilk. Yogurt sweetened with honey is used in Hindu rituals. The salted water version of Lassi was probably introduced by the Turkish people in India. This was because lassi is similar to Ayran. Lassi sometimes has ground cumin in it. Lassi made in Punjab is usually uses a bit of milk and it is topped off with a bit of clotted cream which is also known as Devonshire cream. Lassis are enjoyed as a hot weather drink refreshment. Lassi can also be used as a medical aid if turmeric power is put in it.

Variations of lassi

The sweet version of lassi is a more recent invention that has sugar, rosewater, and a variety of fruit juices such as lemon, mango, and strawberry. Saffron Lassi is very rich and is quite popular in certain areas of India such as Sindh and Jodhpur. There is also the mango lassi which is orange in color and has mango flavoring in it. In some areas of the Middle East such as Iran and Lebanon a similar salty yogurt drink called doogh is popular. In 2002, the United States started selling drinks like lassi which were called drinking yogurt and yogurt smoothie.