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When the summer Sun shines, your body craves a cool and hydrating drink to replenish the lost water content. Among the many coolers, lassi is one of the most popular beverages to have on a typical hot day. The Punjabi drink has been made in the state for centuries, and it is now widely appreciated across the globe.
But how did lassi become so popular? Apart from its frothy texture and cooling nature, the drink has many health benefits that make it a summer-essential drink. If you, too, are curious about the history, versatility, and most famous flavours of lassi, this is just the right article for you. Read on and know how a tall glass of lassi can make your summer afternoons bearable.
The History Of Lassi
Lassi is one of the most ancient forms of smoothies. While lassi is usually sweet, you might also know the drink by its salty cousin, chaas, or buttermilk. Punjabi lassi dates back to 1000 BC and originated in Punjab and Multan in India. Traditionally, lassi was made with cold curd that was stored in earthen pots called matkas. This curd was then blended with water and sugar and churned to get a creamy consistency.
The drink has cooling and hydrating effects that make it a summer-special beverage. The popularity of lassi further increased after it was showcased in many Bollywood movies. For example, the all-time favourite “Dil Wale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge” featured tall glasses of lassi being served to guests. Another classic hit, “Jab We Met”, had mentions and scenes filled with “Punjabi Lassi” that to date has an imprint on people’s minds.
Benefits Of Drinking Lassi
Since the main ingredient of lass is curd, it has many health benefits. Here’s why you should drink lassi on hot summer days.
Improves Digestion: Lassi contains probiotics, the good bacteria that help to improve your gut health. Thus, the drink helps to improve your metabolism and overall digestion. Drinking lassi can also reduce bloating and help relieve the symptoms of diarrhoea and constipation.
Boosts Immunity: Since lassi is made with curd, it contains lactic acid and vitamin D that help boost your body’s immunity. Thus, in summer, if you get any rashes or allergies, your body can help fight them.
Hydrates Body: In the scorching heat of the summer, lassi can help hydrate your body and keep you refreshed throughout the day.
Strengthens Bones: Lassi is rich in calcium, which helps strengthen bones and teeth. It particularly benefits growing kids, pregnant women, and older adults who are more susceptible to bone loss.
Lassi Flavours You Must Try
Classic Sweet Lassi: One of the most popular types of lassi is the classic sweet one. It can be made by simply blending curd, water, sugar, and ice cubes.
Salted Lassi: People who try to avoid sugar like to have salted lassi instead. Instead of using sugar, you can replace it with salt and a little pepper, along with a few mint leaves.
Mango Lassi: Mango lassi is a classic summer-flavoured drink. In the classic sweet lassi, you can add chopped mango to add to the flavour and freshness of the drink.
Chocolate Lassi: One of the favourite flavours of chocoholics is the chocolate lassi. It can be made by adding a little chocolate sauce or melted chocolate to sweet lassi.
Rose Lassi: Rose lassi is another traditional flavour of Punjabi lassi that is made by adding rose syrup to lassi.
