Pistachio Lassi

Lassi is a summer coolant native to India. This traditional beverage that is locally popular has yogurt as it's base and comes both in sweet and salted versions. A fresh batch of yogurt made with full fat milk is best suited for lassi preparation. The basic version needs only yogurt, water and salt / sugar which is filling, nourishing and cooling. Adding spices and herbs makes it more flavorful though optional. Twists to the traditional drink has lead into many variations that include nuts / fruits and so on. 

My version today contains pistachios in the lassi as the name suggests and the lassi is flavored with cardamom and sugar. This creamy, cool beverage is a perfect foil for the summer heat. Here are some lassis that have been posted earlier.

Elaichi - Kesar Lassi

Kesar Lassi

Mango Lassi

Nannari Lassi

Ingredients:

2 cardamom pods / 1/2 tsp. ground cardamom
6 tbsp. pistachios

2 cups chilled, full fat yogurt
4 tsp. sugar or to taste

Crushed ice as needed
Directions:

* Separate the seeds from cardamom pods. Grind pistachios and cardamom seeds together coarsely. Transfer the ground pistachio to a bowl. 

* Save some of the ground pistachio for garnishing. Blend yogurt, sugar, remaining ground pistachio, cardamom and ice until smooth and frothy. 

* Pour lassi into serving glasses and garnish with crushed pistachio. Serve immediately.

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