Persimmon Lassi with Turmeric and Cardamom

Lassi is a popular drink in India, especially in the summer. Yoghurt or dahi occupies a big part in Indian food. You will almost always find it at every meal. It is used to calm your mouth down because of all the spices and chilies. It serves as the balance to hot spicy food and also to cool you down on a super hot day. It is always served cold and is never boring.

Lassi is no different actually. It is made from yoghurt and is used for the same purpose as yoghurt at meal times. There is nothing like a chilled glass of this yoghurt drink on a sweltering hot day. Traditional lassi is pretty simple and is made with just yoghurt and water with some spices, like cumin, mint, salt.

We grew up drinking the stuff and it really was our version of a smoothie.

We don’t have persimmons in India. And today was my first time tasting one. I wondered if it might be good in a lassi. I can safely say it did not disappoint. The fruit tastes amazing! I added some turmeric in this lassi too because turmeric does not have a strong flavor by itself and in India is used for its color and for its many medicinal qualities.

Makes 2

1 persimmon
1/2 cup full fat yoghurt
3/4 cup cold water
3-4 cardamom pods
1/4 tsp turmeric
2 tbsps honey (or according to taste)
pinch of cinnamon
ice cubes

to prepare
Peel and remove the flesh of the persimmon. Roughly crush the cardamom seeds in a mortar and pestle.

Add all ingredients (except cinnamon and ice) in a blender and blend till smooth. If you need more sweet add more honey.

Pour in glasses filled with ice cubes. Sprinkle with some cinnamon and serve immediately.