Mango Lassi Recipe | Authentic Drink in Just 5 Minutes

As Bella Franklin, I’m thrilled to share my go-to mango lassi recipe that brings the taste of India straight to your kitchen. Mango lassi is a timeless, refreshing drink loved globally for its tropical sweetness and creamy texture.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up an authentic version at home in minutes, capturing the essence of this traditional favourite.

What is Mango Lassi?

Mango lassi is a traditional Indian yoghurt-based drink, combining ripe mangoes, yoghurt, milk, and a touch of sweetness. Originally from the Punjab region, it’s now enjoyed worldwide, especially during the summer months. What makes mango lassi special is the balance between fruitiness and creaminess.

In my experience, it’s not just a drink but a cultural experience. Whether served in Indian households, street-side stalls, or top restaurants, mango lassi has become a global ambassador of Indian flavours.

Typically, it’s garnished with a sprinkle of cardamom or chopped pistachios, adding aroma and texture. There are countless variations today, including vegan options and sugar-free twists, but the core remains the same: a refreshing mango yoghurt blend perfect for cooling down on hot days.

Ingredients for Mango Lassi Recipe

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients I use, with their quantities and some tips to help you choose the best:

• Choose mangoes that are sweet and fragrant; avoid fibrous or underripe varieties.
• Use yoghurt that is creamy and fresh, not too sour.
• Cardamom adds an authentic aromatic note, but you can leave it out for a simpler version.
• For vegan options, replace yoghurt and milk with coconut, almond, or oat alternatives.

How to Make Mango Lassi at Home? – Step-by-Step

Making mango lassi at home is straightforward. Here’s how I do it:

• Peel and chop the mangoes, ensuring you remove all the fibrous bits.
• Blend mango pieces into a smooth puree.
• Add yoghurt, milk, sugar (or honey), and cardamom powder.
• Blend again until smooth and creamy.
• Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
• Pour into glasses and optionally garnish with chopped nuts or saffron strands.

I often serve it immediately over a few ice cubes or chill it in the fridge for a more intense flavour. The key is achieving the right consistency, not too runny, not too thick.

Tips for the Perfect Mango Lassi Every Time

From testing multiple recipes, here are my top tips:

• Use sweet mangoes; avoid underripe or overly fibrous ones.
• Blend mango first for a smoother puree.
• Chill ingredients before blending for an instantly cool drink.
• Don’t over-sweeten; let the mango shine.
• Garnish lightly with cardamom or nuts, but don’t overwhelm the drink.
• For a thinner consistency, add a splash more milk.

Small touches, like a pinch of saffron or a drizzle of honey on top, can make your mango lassi restaurant-worthy.

Variations of Mango Lassi Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Mango Lassi Twist

Jamie’s version often includes lime zest and a touch of ginger, bringing a zesty, aromatic lift.

• Uses fresh lime juice for brightness.
• Adds grated ginger for subtle warmth.
• Suggests a drizzle of honey instead of sugar.

BBC Good Food’s Classic Mango Lassi

BBC Good Food sticks to tradition:

• Ripe mangoes blended with yoghurt and milk.
• Slight sugar addition.
• Garnished with pistachios or almonds.

Foodess’s Creamy Mango Lassi

This version focuses on indulgence:

• Uses Greek yoghurt for extra creaminess.
• Blends in a bit of cream or half-and-half.
• Offers a cardamom-saffron option.

Tea for Turmeric’s Vegan Mango Lassi

Perfect for dairy-free drinkers:

• Uses coconut or almond yoghurt.
• Sweetens with maple syrup or dates.
• Suggests adding lemon for tang.

Indian Healthy Recipes’ Traditional Mango Lassi

A classic from India:

• Emphasises Alphonso or Kesar mangoes.
• Adds a pinch of salt for balance.
• Highlights the importance of fresh, high-fat yoghurt.

Mango Lassi Without Sugar: A Healthier Alternative

For those watching sugar intake, here’s how I make a healthier mango lassi:

• Use ripe mangoes for natural sweetness.
• Skip added sugar; blend in a few soaked dates if extra sweetening is needed.
• Use unsweetened almond or oat milk.
• Add flaxseed or chia for extra fibre and nutrition.

Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

This version is not only refreshing but also a smart choice for those on a lower-sugar diet.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Mango Lassi

Mango lassi pairs beautifully with many dishes:

• Serve alongside spicy Indian curries or biryanis to cool the palate.
• Enjoy as a standalone snack on a hot afternoon.
• Offer it with light tea snacks like samosas or pakoras.

For guests, consider small lassi shooters as a fun party drink.

How to Store and Make-Ahead Mango Lassi?

When prepping in advance:

• Store mango lassi in an airtight jug in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Stir before serving, as separation is natural.
• Avoid freezing; it alters the creamy texture.
• If batching for a party, blend just before serving for best freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Mango Lassi

Here’s what I’ve learned to avoid over the years:

• Using sour or watery yoghurt, it ruins the flavour.
• Adding too much ice, which dilutes the drink.
• Skipping the mango puree step, blending whole mango pieces directly can leave fibres.
• Over-sweetening, masking the natural mango taste.
• Storing it too long; fresh is best.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making an authentic mango lassi at home is wonderfully simple and incredibly rewarding. With just a few fresh ingredients and the right balance, you can enjoy a creamy, refreshing drink that captures the essence of Indian summer.

Whether you prefer the classic version, a vegan twist, or a healthier sugar-free option, there’s a mango lassi recipe for everyone. I encourage you to try it yourself, it’s sure to become a favourite in your kitchen.

FAQs About Mango Lassi

What’s the best type of mango for lassi?

Alphonso, Kesar, or Ataulfo mangoes are ideal because of their sweetness and low fibre.

Can I make mango lassi without yoghurt?

Yes, you can use plant-based yoghurts or even blend with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

How do I make vegan mango lassi?

Swap dairy yoghurt and milk for coconut or almond versions, and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Is mango lassi good for health?

In moderation, yes. It provides calcium, vitamins, and probiotics, though watch added sugars.

Can I make mango lassi ahead of time?

Yes, but consume within 24 hours and always store chilled in a covered container.

Why is my mango lassi too runny?

Likely too much milk, reduce liquid or use Greek yoghurt for a thicker result.

Can I add protein powder to mango lassi?

Yes, a scoop of unflavoured or vanilla protein blends well for a post-workout drink.

Mango Lassi Recipe

Freya

Making an authentic mango lassi at home is wonderfully simple and incredibly rewarding. With just a few fresh ingredients and the right balance, you can enjoy a creamy, refreshing drink that captures the essence of Indian summer.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine Indian

Servings 1 people

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 large Mangoes about 1½ cups pulp Use ripe, sweet Alphonso, Kesar, or Ataulfo mangoes for best flavour
• 1 cup 240 ml Yoghurt Full-fat plain yoghurt for creaminess; Greek yoghurt for extra thick lassi
• ½ cup 120 ml Milk Whole milk preferred; can use almond or oat milk for vegan versions
• 2–3 tbsp Sugar or Honey Adjust to taste; skip or use stevia for sugar-free version
• ¼ tsp Cardamom powder Optional for aroma and traditional touch
• Ice cubes Optional for a chilled and frothy texture

Instructions

 

• Peel and chop the mangoes, ensuring you remove all the fibrous bits.
  2 large Mangoes about 1½ cups pulp
• Blend mango pieces into a smooth puree.
• Add yoghurt, milk, sugar (or honey), and cardamom powder.
  1 cup 240 ml Yoghurt, ½ cup 120 ml Milk, 2–3 tbsp Sugar or Honey, ¼ tsp Cardamom powder
• Blend again until smooth and creamy.
• Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
• Pour into glasses and optionally garnish with chopped nuts or saffron strands.
  Ice cubes Optional

Keyword Mango Lassi Recipe