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Indian recipes and culinary adventures

Chaas-tastic! My Green Chilli Buttermilk Bliss!

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Chef Curry Do’pyaza

Chaas-tastic! My Green Chilli Buttermilk Bliss!

Namaste Dosto! Kem cho? Sat Sri Akal! Chef Curry Do’pyaza here, ready to spice up your life with a refreshing and zesty drink – Spiced Buttermilk with Green Chillies!

You know, in India, we have a drink for every mood, every season, every occasion. And this isn’t just any drink, it’s a culinary hug in a glass!

This spicy buttermilk, or chaas as we lovingly call it, is more than just a thirst quencher. It’s a digestive aid, a cooling agent, and a flavour explosion all rolled into one. It’s especially popular during the scorching summer months, after a heavy meal, or during festivals like Holi and Diwali to help digest all those delicious treats. Some families even have it as a daily ritual after lunch!

A Little Trip Down Memory Lane

Buttermilk isn’t a new kid on the block. It has been around for centuries! Traditionally, it was the liquid left behind after churning butter. Our grandmothers knew the secret to using every part of the milk, and this delicious byproduct was too good to waste. Over time, it evolved, and now we often make it by thinning yogurt with water and adding a touch of magic.

Recipe Time! (Preparation: 5 mins, No Cooking Required!)

Let’s get down to business, shall we? This recipe is so simple, even your little brother can whip it up (with a little supervision, of course!).

What You’ll Need:

  • Dahi (Yogurt): 1 cup (full-fat yogurt gives the best creamy texture)
  • Pani (Water): 2 cups (adjust for desired consistency)
  • Hari Mirch (Green Chillies): 1-2, finely chopped (adjust to your spice level!)
  • Adrak (Ginger): ½ inch, grated (adds a warm, zesty kick)
  • Hara Dhaniya (Fresh Coriander): 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (for that fresh, vibrant flavour)
  • Jeera Powder (Cumin Powder): ½ teaspoon (earthy and aromatic)
  • Kala Namak (Black Salt): ¼ teaspoon (for that unique, slightly sulfuric flavour)
  • Namak (Salt): To taste (a pinch is all you need!)

Let’s Get Mixing!

  1. Blend the Magic: In a blender, combine the yogurt and water. Blend until smooth and frothy. If you don’t have a blender, a whisk works just as well!
  2. Spice It Up: Add the chopped green chillies, grated ginger, chopped coriander, cumin powder, black salt, and regular salt to the blended yogurt mixture.
  3. Pulse It: Give it a quick pulse in the blender (just a few seconds!) to incorporate all the spices. If you are using a whisk, stir it well.
  4. Chill Out: Pour the spiced buttermilk into glasses and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld together beautifully.
  5. Garnish & Serve: Before serving, garnish with a sprig of fresh coriander.

Chef Curry’s Tips for Buttermilk Bliss:

  • Spice It Right: Start with one green chilli and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away!
  • Yogurt is Key: Use good quality, full-fat yogurt for the creamiest and most flavourful buttermilk.
  • Black Salt is Your Friend: Don’t skip the black salt! It adds a unique flavour that elevates the entire drink.
  • Make it Ahead: This buttermilk can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavours will only get better!

Buttermilk, Your Way!

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to adapt it:

  • On the Stove (Warm Buttermilk): If you prefer warm buttermilk, gently heat it on the stovetop over low heat. Do not boil it, as it will curdle. Add spices after heating.
  • In the Microwave (Quick Warm-Up): For a quick warm-up, microwave for 30-60 seconds, stirring occasionally. Add spices after heating.
  • No Blender? No Problem!: Use a whisk or a hand blender to combine the yogurt and water.
  • Add a Twist: Experiment with other spices like asafoetida (hing), curry leaves, or a pinch of red chilli powder.

Nutritional Nuggets (per serving, approximate):

  • Calories: 50-70
  • Protein: 3-4 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
  • Fat: 2-4 grams
  • Rich in calcium and probiotics

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve chilled as a refreshing drink on a hot day.
  • Pair it with spicy Indian meals like biryani or curries.
  • Enjoy it as a digestive aid after a heavy meal.
  • It also works as a delicious and healthy snack.

Your Turn to Create!

Now it’s your turn to whip up this Chaas-tastic Spiced Buttermilk with Green Chillies! It’s easy, refreshing, and packed with flavour. Try it at home and share it with your friends and family. I promise, they’ll thank you for it!

Happy Cooking, Dosto!

Chef Curry Do’pyaza, signing off!