Buttermilk
Beverages • India
How to Make Buttermilk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Buttermilk, known as 'chaas' in Hindi and 'majige' in Kannada, is a beloved Indian beverage with roots deeply embedded in the country’s culinary traditions. It is made by blending yogurt (dahi) with water and spices, resulting in a refreshing, low-calorie drink cherished across India, especially during hot summers. From North Indian households serving chaas with lunch to South Indian families preparing spiced majige for festivals, buttermilk is a staple for its cooling properties and digestive benefits. The taste of authentic Indian buttermilk is tangy, mildly spicy, and aromatic, thanks to the blend of roasted cumin (jeera), fresh coriander (dhaniya), and ginger. Buttermilk is commonly enjoyed during festivals like Holi and Diwali, as well as everyday meals, making it both a festive and daily beverage. Its versatility allows for regional variations, such as adding curry leaves in Tamil Nadu or hing (asafoetida) in Gujarat. This healthy, vegetarian drink is perfect for those seeking a traditional, flavorful, and nourishing option in their diet.
Ingredients(for 1 glass (200 ml) per serving)
- 1 cup Fresh yogurt (dahi) (homemade preferred)
- 2 cups Water (chilled or room temperature)
- 1/2 tsp Roasted cumin powder (jeera)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (sendha namak for fasting)
- 1 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves (dhaniya) (finely chopped)
- 1 Green chilli (finely chopped) - optional
- 1/2 inch Ginger (grated)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper powder - optional
- pinch Hing (asafoetida) (optional, Gujarati style) - optional
- 4-5 Curry leaves (optional, South Indian style) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Add fresh yogurt (dahi) to a mixing bowl. Whisk it smoothly until there are no lumps.
2 minutes
Use homemade dahi for best taste and probiotic benefits.
- 2
Pour in chilled water gradually and continue whisking until the mixture becomes frothy and smooth.
3 minutes
Adjust water for desired thickness; thinner chaas is more refreshing.
- 3
Add roasted cumin powder, salt, grated ginger, and finely chopped green chilli (if using). Mix well.
2 minutes
Roast whole cumin seeds and grind for intense flavor.
- 4
Stir in chopped coriander leaves, black pepper powder, and a pinch of hing or curry leaves as per regional preference.
2 minutes
Add spices according to taste and festival traditions.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This traditional Indian recipe is an excellent choice for calorie-conscious individuals. Buttermilk supports gut health through probiotics, helps manage weight, and keeps you hydrated. Its low fat and moderate protein content make it suitable for diabetic and weight loss diets. The addition of spices like cumin and ginger further boost metabolism and digestion, making buttermilk a functional, healthy beverage.
Buttermilk is a low-calorie, high-water-content beverage that provides protein, calcium, and probiotics from dahi. It aids digestion due to the presence of ginger and cumin, while coriander and curry leaves add antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin A, C, and K. Its electrolyte content helps hydrate the body, making it ideal for summer and post-meal consumption. The drink is naturally low in fat and carbohydrates when made with low-fat yogurt.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh, homemade dahi for best flavor and probiotic benefits.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust spice and salt levels according to dietary needs and regional preference.
- 💡Tip 3: Serve in clay cups (kulhad) for an authentic Indian touch and enhanced taste.
Storage & Serving
Store buttermilk in the refrigerator in a covered container for up to 24 hours. Stir before serving; do not freeze.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 99.0 kcal |
