What does a mango lassi taste like?
A mango lassi tastes like a mango smoothie with a tangy yogurt twist: thick, creamy and sweet, sometimes with a hint of cardamom.
Mango lassi
creamy, tangy mango smoothie
A mango lassi is a yogurt drink from India: ripe mango pulp blended with yogurt, a little milk or water and sugar, often with a pinch of cardamom. It tastes like a thick mango smoothie, sweet and tropical, with a gentle sour tang from the yogurt that keeps it from getting cloying. Cardamom adds a warm, floral edge if it's there. It's cold, creamy and filling, and it's a classic way to cool your mouth after a spicy curry. Restaurants often use canned Alphonso or Kesar mango pulp, which is very fragrant.
Where you’ll see it
At Indian and Pakistani restaurants, in the drinks section, served cold in a tall glass, sometimes with a sprinkle of cardamom or pistachio. Plain sweet and salted lassis are often listed too.
Order it if you want something sweet and creamy to balance spicy food.
Quick questions
- Is a mango lassi made with yogurt?
- Yes. A lassi is a yogurt drink, so it contains dairy. Mango lassi blends yogurt with mango pulp, sugar and sometimes milk.
- Does a mango lassi taste sour?
- Only a little. The yogurt adds a light tang, but the mango and sugar make it taste mostly sweet and fruity.