Homemade Buttermilk
Beverages • India
How to Make Homemade Buttermilk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Homemade Buttermilk, known as 'Chaas' or 'Majjige' in different regions of India, is a refreshing and nutritious beverage deeply rooted in Indian culinary traditions. This light, tangy drink is prepared by blending yogurt (dahi) with water and seasoning it with spices and herbs, making it a staple during hot summers, especially in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and South India. Buttermilk is cherished for its cooling properties and digestive benefits, often served alongside meals or as a standalone drink to quench thirst and aid digestion. Its significance extends to cultural rituals and festivals, such as Holi and Navratri, where buttermilk is offered as a cooling respite after spicy foods and as a fasting beverage. With regional variations like 'Masala Chaas', 'Mint Chaas', and 'South Indian Majjige', it’s a versatile drink that adapts to personal taste, making it a beloved choice across India. The taste of buttermilk is mildly tangy, creamy, and flavored with aromatic spices like jeera (cumin), hing (asafoetida), and fresh herbs such as coriander and mint. Its health-conscious preparation, using low-fat yogurt and minimal oil, ensures that it fits seamlessly into calorie-conscious diets. Homemade buttermilk is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to hydrate, making it an ideal beverage for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Whether enjoyed after a spicy meal, during festivals, or as a cooling drink in the summer, buttermilk reflects the vibrant and diverse food culture of India. Its simplicity and nutritional value make it a perfect addition to everyday meals, embodying the essence of Indian hospitality and wellness.
Ingredients(for 1 glass (about 200 ml))
- 1 cup Low-fat yogurt (dahi) (fresh, homemade preferred)
- 1.5 cups Water (chilled)
- 1/2 tsp Roasted cumin powder (jeera) (for aroma)
- 1/4 tsp Salt (sendha namak for fasting)
- 1/4 tsp Black salt (kala namak) (optional) - optional
- 1 tbsp Chopped coriander leaves (dhaniya) (fresh)
- 1 tbsp Chopped mint leaves (pudina) (fresh) - optional
- 1/2 Green chili (finely chopped, optional for spice) - optional
- a pinch Asafoetida (hing) (for digestion) - optional
- 1/2 tsp Ginger (adrak) (grated, optional) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Add the fresh low-fat yogurt (dahi) to a mixing bowl. Whisk it until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
3 minutes
Use a wooden churner (mathani) for a traditional touch.
- 2
Gradually add chilled water to the whisked yogurt, continuing to whisk until fully blended and frothy.
2 minutes
Cold water helps make the buttermilk extra refreshing.
- 3
Add the roasted cumin powder (jeera), salt, black salt (kala namak), and asafoetida (hing). Mix well to combine all the spices.
2 minutes
Roast cumin seeds and grind for the best flavor.
- 4
Add chopped coriander leaves (dhaniya), mint leaves (pudina), and grated ginger (adrak). Mix gently.
2 minutes
Adjust herbs to your regional preference.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This buttermilk recipe is a healthy choice because it uses low-fat dairy, minimal oil, and incorporates digestive spices and fresh herbs. It is naturally low in calories, making it perfect for weight management. The probiotics in yogurt promote gut health, while herbs and spices offer antioxidant benefits. Its hydrating nature makes it ideal for summer and daily consumption.
Homemade buttermilk is low in calories and rich in protein, calcium, and probiotics, which support gut health and digestion. The use of low-fat yogurt reduces saturated fats, making this beverage suitable for calorie-conscious diets. Cumin and ginger aid in digestion, while coriander and mint provide vitamins A and C. The beverage is hydrating and a good source of electrolytes, especially beneficial during hot Indian summers.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use homemade dahi for authentic flavor and probiotic benefits.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust spices according to regional preferences; South Indians add curry leaves, North Indians prefer extra cumin.
- 💡Tip 3: Serve chilled for maximum refreshment, especially during summer festivals.
Storage & Serving
Store buttermilk in a covered jug or bottle in the refrigerator. Consume within 24 hours for best taste and freshness. Shake well before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 45.0 kcal |
