Gujarati · 4 glasses

Masala Chaas

Thin buttermilk with cumin, ginger and curry leaves. What you drink after a heavy lunch.

5 min Easy Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 cup thick yogurt
  • 600ml cold water
  • 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 green chilli, minced
  • 8 curry leaves
  • 1/2 tsp black salt
  • Salt to taste
  • Coriander leaves

Method

  1. Whisk the yogurt smooth on its own before any water goes in, or it stays lumpy.
  2. Add the water gradually, whisking. It should be thin enough to drink, not a lassi.
  3. Cumin, ginger, chilli, both salts.
  4. Crush the curry leaves between your fingers and drop them in — crushing releases far more than tearing.
  5. Chill 30 minutes. Coriander on top. Nothing sweet goes anywhere near it.

Questions people ask about Masala Chaas

How long does Masala Chaas take?

About 5 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is straightforward. That is start-to-finish, so it works on a weeknight when you have not planned anything.

What can I use instead of curd in Masala Chaas?

Use thick Greek yogurt, or regular yogurt hung in a cloth for 20 minutes. Thin yogurt splits more easily, so always take the pan off the heat first.

Can I make Masala Chaas ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Is Masala Chaas vegetarian?

Yes, and as written it is vegan too. Check your specific brands if that matters to you.

How long does home-made masala chaas keep?

Best made and drunk the same day. Anything blended with fruit separates within a couple of hours, so stir or shake it before pouring.

Don't know what to cook? Let it decide →

More ideas by ingredient

If you liked this

Ice Cream Soda
3 min · Easy
Cold Coffee
3 min · Easy
Rose Sharbat
3 min · Easy
Mint Coconut Chutney
5 min · Easy
Tandoori Chutney
5 min · Easy
Ginger Garlic Paste
5 min · Easy