With this quick and easy Vegan Mango Lassi recipe you will learn how to make this refreshing Indian summer drink at home. The recipe calls for easy dairy-free ingredients and you can use any fruit really, if you don’t have mangoes available!
What is Lassi?
Lassi is a popular traditional beverage from India that is known for its refreshing and cooling properties. It is a yogurt-based drink that has been enjoyed for centuries, especially in the northern regions of India, such as Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Lassi holds significant cultural and historical importance in Indian cuisine. I made it vegan by swapping the dairy yoghurt with a plant-based alternative. It’s that simple.
In its simplest form, Lassi is made by blending together yogurt, water, and sometimes a touch of sugar or salt. However, there are several variations of Lassi that have evolved over time. For instance, sweet Lassi is made by adding sugar, while salted or savory Lassi incorporates salt, spices, and even herbs like mint or coriander. Some Lassi variations also include fruit, such as mango or strawberry, to add a fruity twist to the drink.
Origin of Lassi in India
The exact origins of Lassi are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the Punjab region of India. Punjab, known as the land of five rivers, has a rich agricultural heritage and is famous for its dairy products. Lassi emerged as a way to utilize the abundance of yogurt and dairy in the region.
Traditionally, Lassi was served in earthenware cups called “matkas” to keep the beverage cool in the scorching summer heat. The drink was often enjoyed as a refreshing accompaniment to spicy meals or as a way to beat the heat during hot summer days. It has since gained popularity across India and even internationally, becoming a beloved beverage in Indian restaurants worldwide.
Today, Lassi is readily available in various forms, from street-side vendors and dhabas (roadside eateries) to upscale restaurants and cafes.
So, whether you’re sipping on a classic sweet Lassi or trying a unique flavored variation, Lassi remains an iconic and cherished beverage that represents the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of India.
Ingredients for Vegan Mango Lassi
- Plain non-dairy yogurt: I used Coconut Yogurt but you can use or Almond Yogurt or Homemade Soy Yogurt
- Fresh or frozen cubed Mango: This is about 2 ripe mangoes
- Cold water or plant-based milk: I like to add some soy milk for exit creaminess and some protein
- Sugar: You can sub with maple syrup or agave syrup
- Ground cardamom seeds: You can sub with saffron strands, rose water or vanilla extract
- Ice cubes, for serving (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Conclusion: Savor the exotic flavors of a Vegan Mango Lassi with this simple and dairy-free recipe. This plant-based twist on the classic Indian beverage offers a refreshing and guilt-free indulgence. Whether enjoyed as a nourishing breakfast smoothie or a delightful afternoon treat, this Vegan Mango Lassi will transport you to a tropical paradise with each sip. Experience the harmony of sweet mangoes and creamy dairy-free yogurt, and cool down this hot summer.
Try other summer mango desserts from the blog:
Creamy Vegan Mango Lassi
Ingredients
- 1 cup or 235 g Plain non-dairy yogurt (I used Coconut Yogurt but you can use or Almond Yogurt or Homemade Soy Yogurt
- 1¼ cups fresh or frozen cubed Mango About 2 ripe mangoes
- ¼ cup cold water or plant-based milk
- ½ cup chilled water or Ice cubes adjust for desired Lassi consistency
- 1-2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup or agave syrup
- ½ tsp ground cardamom seeds
- Ice cubes, for serving (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Freeze the yogurt in ice cube trays overnight. You can also freeze extra for smoothies and such.
- Blend all the ingredients (including the frozen yogurt cubes) until smooth. Add more sugar if required.
- Adjust consistency with more water or plant-based milk if needed and blend again.
- If desired, add a few ice cubes to the blender and blend briefly to chill the lassi.
- Pour the Vegan Mango Lassi into serving glasses.Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
- Serve the Vegan Mango Lassi immediately and enjoy the tropical bliss.
I made this in the middle of an afternoon during a fierce Texas heatwave, and I’ve concluded I will be making one around the same time everyday for the foreseeable future! It’s the perfect afternoon cool-down drink.
Tried this recipe out after planning to make it all this time. Thank you for posting it as a sign to go ahead, haha! It turned out delicious. My sister and I make it all the time now!
So glad to hear you and your sister love this recipe!!