There’s something magical about the first sip of a perfectly made mango lassi on a hot afternoon. This traditional Indian yogurt drink transforms ripe mangoes into pure liquid sunshine, creating the ultimate balance between sweet, tangy, and creamy. The smooth texture paired with tropical mango flavor makes this homemade mango lassi recipe my go-to drink for everything from summer BBQs to post-workout refreshments. Trust me, once you master this easy technique, you’ll never want to buy store-bought versions again.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Mango Lassi
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups ripe mango chunks (fresh or frozen) – The star ingredient that provides natural sweetness and tropical flavor. Choose Alfonso or Ataulfo varieties for best taste, though any sweet mango works. Frozen mango creates extra thick texture
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt – Creates the signature tangy creaminess. Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics. Substitute with regular yogurt for lighter consistency or coconut yogurt for dairy-free option
- 1/2 cup whole milk – Helps achieve smooth blending consistency. Use coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk for non-dairy alternatives
- 2-3 tablespoons honey or sugar – Adjust sweetness based on mango ripeness. Maple syrup works great for vegan version
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom – Traditional spice that elevates the flavor profile with warm, floral notes
- Pinch of salt – Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness
Optional Flavor Boosters
- 1 tablespoon rose water – Adds traditional Persian touch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Creates depth without overpowering mango
- 1 inch fresh ginger – Provides subtle warmth and aids digestion
- Ice cubes – For extra-cold serving temperature
How to Make the Best Mango Lassi
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Ensure mangoes are perfectly ripe – they should yield slightly to pressure and smell fragrant at the stem end. If using fresh mango, peel and cube into chunks. Frozen mango works excellently and creates naturally thick texture without diluting flavors.
Step 2: Blend the Base
Add mango chunks, yogurt, and milk to high-powered blender. Start with less milk – you can always add more for desired consistency. Blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds until completely smooth. The mixture should be creamy without any fibrous mango pieces.
Step 3: Season and Sweeten
Add honey, cardamom, and salt to the blender. Taste and adjust sweetness – remember that flavors will be slightly muted when cold. Blend for additional 30 seconds to incorporate seasonings evenly.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
Check thickness by pouring small amount into glass. For drinking consistency, add milk gradually until desired texture. For thick shake-style lassi, add less liquid or extra frozen mango. The perfect mango lassi coats the glass lightly but pours smoothly.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Pour into glasses filled with ice or chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Garnish with chopped pistachios, mint leaves, or light cardamom sprinkle. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Creative Mango Lassi Variations
Tropical Coconut Mango Lassi – Replace half the yogurt with coconut cream and add toasted coconut flakes. Perfect summer treat that pairs beautifully with spicy foods.
Protein-Packed Mango Lassi – Add scoop of vanilla protein powder for post-workout refreshment. Check out our Mango Coconut Protein Shake for more protein-rich variations.
Spiced Chai Mango Lassi – Include pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper for warming spice blend that complements mango’s sweetness.
Vegan Mango Lassi – Use coconut yogurt, coconut milk, and maple syrup for completely plant-based version that’s equally creamy and satisfying.
Saffron Mango Lassi – Steep few saffron threads in warm milk before blending for luxurious, aromatic upgrade that’s perfect for special occasions.
Green Mango Mint Lassi – Add handful of fresh mint leaves and use slightly underripe mango for refreshing, tangy variation that’s incredibly cooling.
Homemade Mango Lassi Recipe
Equipment
- High-speed blender
- Measuring Cups
- Knife & cutting board (if using fresh mango)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups ripe mango chunks fresh or frozen
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup whole milk or coconut/almond/oat milk for non-dairy
- 2 –3 tbsp honey or sugar adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- Pinch of salt
Optional Flavor Boosters
- 1 tbsp rose water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 inch fresh ginger
- Ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Mango: If using fresh mangoes, peel and cube them. Ensure they’re ripe and fragrant.
- Blend Base: Add mango chunks, yogurt, and milk to a blender. Blend on high speed for 60–90 seconds until smooth.
- Season and Sweeten: Add honey (or sugar), cardamom, and salt. Blend again for 30 seconds to incorporate flavors.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more milk for a thinner texture or more frozen mango for a thicker consistency.
- Chill and Serve: Serve over ice or chill for 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with pistachios, mint, or extra cardamom if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Do mango and coconut go together?
Absolutely! Mango and coconut create one of nature’s most perfect flavor combinations. The tropical sweetness of mango complements coconut’s rich, nutty flavor beautifully. Many traditional Indian and Thai dishes combine these ingredients because they balance each other perfectly – mango provides bright acidity while coconut adds creamy richness.
Is mango good for protein shakes?
Yes, mango works excellently in protein shakes. It provides natural sweetness that masks protein powder’s sometimes chalky taste while adding vitamins A and C. The fruit’s creamy texture when blended creates smooth consistency. Frozen mango chunks work especially well because they eliminate need for ice while maintaining thick, shake-like texture.
Is mango and coconut a good combo?
Mango and coconut form an exceptional combination that’s been used in cuisines worldwide for centuries. The pairing works because mango’s bright, tangy sweetness perfectly balances coconut’s rich, creamy flavor. Both ingredients share tropical origins and complementary textures that create harmonious taste experience in drinks, desserts, and savory dishes.
Can I mix mango with protein powder?
Definitely! Mango pairs wonderfully with protein powder, especially vanilla or unflavored varieties. The fruit’s natural sweetness reduces need for additional sweeteners while providing fiber and vitamins. Use frozen mango for best texture and add liquid gradually to achieve desired consistency. Start with smaller protein powder amounts to avoid overpowering mango flavor.
What not to mix with protein shake?
Avoid mixing protein powder with acidic ingredients like citrus juice or vinegar, which can cause clumping. Don’t combine with high-fiber ingredients like raw vegetables immediately before consumption as this can cause digestive discomfort. Avoid adding too much liquid at once, which creates thin, unappetizing texture. Also skip adding salt or savory seasonings that clash with protein powder’s profile.
How long does homemade mango lassi last?
Fresh mango lassi keeps in refrigerator for 2-3 days maximum. The texture may separate slightly – just stir before serving. Don’t freeze prepared lassi as yogurt’s texture becomes grainy when thawed. For best flavor and consistency, consume within 24 hours of making.
Can I make mango lassi without yogurt?
While yogurt provides signature tang and creaminess, you can substitute with coconut cream, cashew cream, or even vanilla ice cream for different flavor profiles. However, these alternatives will create different taste and nutritional profile than traditional mango lassi recipe.
This homemade mango lassi recipe has become my family’s summer obsession, and I love watching guests’ faces light up with that first creamy, tropical sip. There’s something deeply satisfying about creating this traditional drink in your own kitchen, adjusting sweetness to personal preference, and sharing it with people you care about. The recipe respects time-honored techniques while embracing modern convenience – exactly what great home cooking should accomplish. Make it your own by experimenting with spices and sweetness levels until you find your perfect version.