Last Updated on May 13, 2021 by Chef Mireille
Lassi Patiala is a refreshing fresh Indian Vanilla Smoothie. Flavored with vanilla and cardamom, this yogurt based smoothie is akin to a dessert smoothie – especially when served traditionally with peda – Indian Milk Fudge.
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Like many other Indian states, Haryana was created out of a larger one in years much after Independence along linguistic lines. Like Jharkand out of Bihar, Haryana was created out of the much larger state of Punjab. For this reason, the cuisines of Haryana and Punjab are practically synonymous.
Punjabi cuisine is the most popular Indian cuisine in the West, so the food of Haryana was very familiar to me. I went on a search to find something unique I’ve never had at an Indian restaurant before and I found this refreshing lassi, a nice twist to the Mango Lassi I usually have at Indian restaurants.
Although Patiala is located in Punjab, Haryana was once part of Punjab and this lassi is one of the most popular varieties in Haryana.
One of the most unique characteristics of this lassi to me is the use of vanilla extract. Although vanilla extract is very common in any kind of dessert or dessert beverage here in America and in other Western cuisines, it is not as common in Indian sweets where cardamom and rose water are more prevalent flavors.
When I first saw a recipe for this lassi, I thought the blogger had adapted it a little. However, after I visited 6 recipes all using vanilla extract, I realized it had to be the authentic version. Additionally, peda, which is a type of Indian milk fudge is often added into the drink so you get a nice sweet surprise at the end.
This is a very thick and rich lassi, perfect on a hot summer day and less sweet than the more common Mango Lassi. I made this back in October when the weather in NY is schizophrenic going back and forth between 50 and 80 degrees on a daily basis. After being overdressed because the previous day had been cool, I came home all sweaty and uncomfortable. I took a cool shower and then drank this cooling drink and it hit the spot.
Other Lassi Recipes
Do you want to get way more flavor out of this delicious Indian Vanilla Smoothie? Use your own homemade vanilla extract. It is not only more cost efficient but it will give so much more vanilla flavor to whatever it is added to. Here is my delicious Homemade Vanilla Extract.
Lassi Patiala
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 tablespoons sugar
- 2 ice cubes
- a large pinch of saffron
- 1 tablespoon chopped pistacchios
Instructions
- Heat the milk and add saffron. Let sit for a few minutes.
- In a blender, combine with saffron milk, yogurt, vanilla, cardamom, sugar and ice. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Garnish with nuts.
Notes
Nutrition
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very refreshing and so yummy!!! can enjoy this anytime!!
Lassi is one of my favourite i can drink even when the weather is too down, lovely drink..
Lassi is my husband's favourite drink after a meal
The lassi looks very refreshing….normally they add peda..which is a sweet to the lassi and milk…ehe..but Mir I love your version of Lassi Patiala also for a simpler version..
Refreshing drink for summer. A favorite in our house.
i saw one recipe adding rabri to their lassi and in maharashtra they add pedhas…the one i prefer is less sweet and a dash of whipped cream on top makes up for the creaminess. I can equally be at ease while gulping down this glass
Lassi looks so refreshing and delicious,perfect one for hot summer..
Lassi is indeed a thirst quencher and refreshing summer drink
It is hot here is our place and I would love to drink this glass full of delicious lassi…
Lassi in some form or the other is a standard practice even in our homes down south, specially in summers. But as you pointed out, addition of vanilla is typically unheard of. But definitely adds flavor!
I made this too but skipped vanilla – truly refreshing for the summer ;-))
Refreshing and delicious lassi.Perfect for this summer..
Wow this picture was so long ago right..I still remember…so lovely Mir..as they say wow wow..:)..
Wow wow wow. mir I remember theses pics. Love it Mir!
Vanilla extract is sure an interesting addition to lassi. Sounds refreshing and delicious.
One frothy, refreshing drink on a hot day.
I haven't added vanilla to lassi and I am going to make it your way the next time..