Spiced Indian Buttermilk (Chaas/Mattha)
By Recipe Heaven Kitchen0
Prep5 min
Cook0 min
Servings2
DifficultyEasy
Quench your thirst and aid digestion with this traditional Spiced Indian Buttermilk, also known as Chaas or Mattha! This cooling, savory yogurt-based drink is a staple in Indian households, especially during scorching summers. Learn how to prepare this healthy, flavorful beverage with aromatic spices in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh plain yogurt (dahi), preferably low-fat or regular
- 2 cups chilled water
- 1/2 inch ginger, grated or finely chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste, optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder (bhuna jeera powder)
- 1/4 teaspoon black salt (kala namak)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- 1
1. Prepare Ingredients: Ensure your yogurt is fresh and cold. Grate or finely chop ginger and green chilies. Chop fresh coriander leaves for garnish.
- 2
2. Combine in Blender or Churn: In a blender jar, combine the fresh plain yogurt, chilled water, grated ginger, chopped green chilies, roasted cumin powder, black salt, and regular salt. Alternatively, you can use a hand whisk or traditional 'madani' in a large bowl.
- 3
3. Blend Until Smooth and Frothy: Blend the mixture on medium-high speed until it is smooth, frothy, and all the spices are well incorporated. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Avoid over-blending as it can sometimes make the buttermilk watery.
- 4
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the buttermilk and adjust the salt or other spices if needed. If you prefer a stronger ginger or chili flavor, you can add more and blend briefly.
- 5
5. Serve Chilled: Pour the spiced buttermilk into serving glasses. Garnish generously with fresh chopped coriander leaves. Serve immediately, chilled, and enjoy this cooling and digestive Indian drink!
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between Chaas and Lassi?▾
Chaas (buttermilk) is a thin, savory, and spiced yogurt-based drink, usually diluted with water. Lassi, on the other hand, is generally thicker and can be sweet or savory, often less diluted and sometimes includes fruits or sugar.
Can I use store-bought buttermilk for this recipe?▾
The traditional Indian buttermilk (Chaas) is made from yogurt and water. Store-bought buttermilk in Western countries often refers to cultured buttermilk, which has a different consistency and sourness. For authentic taste, it's best to make it from fresh plain yogurt.
How can I make this buttermilk more digestive?▾
Adding a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the tempering (if you do one), or including a small amount of roasted fenugreek powder (methi dana powder) can enhance its digestive properties. Always use fresh ginger and cumin, known for their digestive benefits.
What if my buttermilk is too watery?▾
If your buttermilk turns out too watery, it likely means you've added too much water or the yogurt itself was too thin. To fix it, add another tablespoon or two of fresh, thick plain yogurt and blend again briefly until the desired consistency is achieved.
Can I add tempering (tadka) to buttermilk?▾
Yes, adding a tempering is a popular variation, especially in South Indian buttermilk. Heat a teaspoon of oil or ghee, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a pinch of asafoetida. Once spluttering, pour it over the prepared buttermilk just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | 90 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbs | 10g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 3g |
You may also enjoy
Trending recipes
Tried, loved, and rated highly by home cooks.
Latest recipes
Freshly added to our kitchen.
