What is Mango lassi ?
Mango lassi is a popular traditional yogurt-based drink from the Indian/Pakistani subcontinent.
It is made by blending ripe mangoes, yogurt, and a sweetener, such as sugar or honey, together to create a creamy, sweet, and refreshing beverage. It is typically served chilled and garnished with chopped nuts or fruit.
Mango lassi is a popular drink during hot summer months, as it provides a refreshing and hydrating break from the heat. The combination of mangoes and yogurt creates a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a delicious and satisfying drink. It is also a rich source of calcium and probiotics which makes it a healthy option to add to your diet.
Mango lassi health benefits
Mango lassi is a healthy and refreshing drink that offers a number of health benefits due to its ingredients. Some of the potential health benefits of mango lassi include:
Rich in nutrients: Mango lassi is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and calcium. The probiotics in yogurt also make it a great option for gut health.
Hydrates the body: Mango lassi is a refreshing and hydrating drink, making it a great option to help keep the body hydrated, especially during hot summer months.
Boosts immunity: The high levels of vitamin C found in mangoes can help to boost the immune system, making it a great option to help protect against colds and flu.
Aids digestion: The probiotics found in yogurt can help to improve digestion and alleviate symptoms of constipation and other digestive issues.
Good for skin: The vitamin A in mangoes helps to keep skin healthy and glowing, while the probiotics in yogurt can help to improve the health of the gut, which is where a lot of skin problems begin.
May aid weight loss: Mango lassi can be a great option for those looking to lose weight, as it is low in calories and fat, but high in fiber and protein.It’s important to note that consuming mango lassi in moderation is key to obtaining the health benefits, and to be mindful of the sugar or sweetener added. Also, if you are lactose intolerant, it may be best to use a non-dairy yogurt alternative or make the lassi with coconut milk or almond milk.
Do you want to make that at home ?
Mango lassi is easy to make at home with few basic ingredients, here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
1 cup of ripe mangoes, peeled and diced - you can use mando puree if the fresh ingrediants are not at hand
1 cup of plain yogurt
1/4 cup of sugar or honey
1/4 cup of water
a pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
Instructions:
In a blender, combine the diced mangoes, yogurt, sugar or honey, water, and cardamom powder (if using).
Blend the ingredients until smooth.
Taste and adjust the sweetness as per your preference.
Pour the mango lassi into a glass, and garnish with chopped nuts or fruit if desired.
Serve chilled and enjoy!You can also experiment with different variations like adding fresh mint leaves or rose petals for added flavor.
Is there a Vegan mango lassi without yogurt?
Yes, it is possible to make a vegan version of mango lassi without using yogurt. Here is a recipe for a vegan mango lassi:
Ingredients:
1 cup of ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
1 cup of coconut milk or almond milk
1/4 cup of sugar or honey
1/4 cup of water
a pinch of cardamom powder (optional)Instructions:
In a blender, combine the diced mangoes, coconut milk or almond milk, sugar or honey, water, and cardamom powder (if using).
Blend the ingredients until smooth.
Taste and adjust the sweetness as per your preference.
Pour the vegan mango lassi into a glass, and garnish with chopped nuts or fruit if desired.
Serve chilled and enjoy!You can also use other non-dairy alternatives such as soy milk, oat milk, or rice milk in place of coconut milk or almond milk. Additionally, you can add some fresh mint leaves or rose petals for added flavor.
It’s also important to note that if you are using a store-bought non-dairy milk, check the ingredients for added sugar or sweeteners.
You can always adjust the amount of sweeteners to your taste preference.
Enjoy your vegan mango lassi!
Are there any side affects from drinking Mango lassi ?
Mango lassi is generally considered safe to consume in moderate amounts, but it can have some potential side effects, especially if consumed in excessive amounts or if you have certain health conditions. Some possible side effects of mango lassi include:
Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to mangoes or other ingredients used in mango lassi, such as coconut or almond milk. If you experience an allergic reaction after consuming mango lassi, it's best to avoid it and consult a doctor.
Excessive sugar intake: Mango lassi is often made with added sugar, which can cause an increase in blood sugar levels and contribute to the risk of developing diabetes, obesity, and other health problems if consumed in excessive amounts.
Lactose intolerance: If you consume the traditional version of mango lassi which is made with yogurt and are lactose intolerant, you may experience symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Interactions with medication: Mango lassi made with coconut milk or almond milk may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and blood sugar-lowering medications. If you are taking any medication, it's best to consult a doctor before consuming mango lassi.In general, it’s always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional before consuming mango lassi, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking any medications.
Is mango lassi good for weight loss?
Mango lassi can be a healthy option for weight loss if consumed in moderation and made with the right ingredients. Here are a few ways in which mango lassi can be beneficial for weight loss:
Low in calories: A standard serving of mango lassi made with unsweetened yogurt and no added sugar is relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those looking to lose weight.
High in protein: Yogurt is high in protein, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
Rich in nutrients: Mango lassi is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and calcium. These nutrients can help to support overall health, making it a good option for weight loss.
Hydrates the body: Mango lassi is a refreshing and hydrating drink, which can help to keep the body hydrated, reducing the risk of overeating.However, it’s important to be mindful of the added sugar and sweeteners used when making mango lassi. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar can contribute to the risk of developing diabetes and obesity, and other health problems. It’s best to use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, or go for a sugar-free alternative.
Additionally, consuming mango lassi as part of a balanced diet and regular exercise routine is important for weight loss. It’s also important to consult a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.