Spiced buttermilk is a very popular drink in Western India – Gujarati and Rajasthani -households, but also all over India. Chaas is such a refreshing and cooling drink for summer. It is light and goes well with any Indian meal. It is one of my favorites, along with Mango Lassi to enjoy in summer. It is very easy to make Chaas, you just need yogurt, along with some herbs and spices. Then you blend them all together along with water and it is ready to enjoy!
What is Chaas?
Chaas is a yogurt-based drink that is good for you – high in vitamins and low in fat. It is categorized as a sattvic food in Ayurveda. The English translation for Chaas would be Spiced Buttermilk. It is also known by various names throughout India – Sambhaaram, Morum Vellam, Majjige, Chach, Tak, Matha, Near Mor. Earlier, Chaas was made by churning yogurt with cold water in a large pot. Nowadays people prefer to make chaas in a blender as the churning method takes a longer time to make it. It can be served plain or seasoned with different spices.
Health Benefits
Even though Chaas is a simple everyday drink for many, it has numerous health benefits:
Reduces Acidity Fights Constipation Cooling Effect Helps in detoxification High in Vitamins and Nutrients Prevents Dehydration Reduces blood pressure
Different types of Chaas
Plain Chaas – This simpler version of Chaas is made by mixing water, yogurt, and seasoned with salt. A perfect simple go-to drink. Boondi Chaas – If you like crunchiness in your drink then you’ll love this variation, just add boondi right before serving the Chaas as a garnish. Masala Chaas with tadka – In this version tempering is added to the Chaas, this is very famous in South India. In Gujarat, it is called Vagharela Chaas. Tempering is made in oil by roasting mustard seeds, curry leaves and hing.
Ingredients
Yogurt: It is the main ingredient of the drink. You can make yogurt at home or it is easily available in grocery stores as well. You want to use plain yogurt to make Chaas. I prefer to use whole milk yogurt. Chilled Water Spices: You will need Ginger, Green Chili, Salt, Chaat Masala, and Roasted Cumin Powder. Cilantro Leaves Mint Leaves
How to Make Chaas?
Add the ingredients to a blender (skip green chili if you don’t want it spicy) and blend them well. Make sure there are no lumps. Pour into a glass, garnish it with mint leaves, and sprinkle some roasted cumin powder. Serve immediately or refrigerate to chill the chaas for a few hours. Note: Chaas tastes best when served chilled.
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