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| Sweet Cucumber Lassi |
Introduction
Lets jump right into it When I think of the first time I sweetened a lassi with cucumbers, I think of it being on the hot and sunny verandah in Trinidad, where I would watch the ice dance in the glass with the lassi, while the lassi and the sweet, tangy lime blended with cane sugar. Lassi’s origin may be South Asia, but we know the Caribbean, with it's bright, refreshing take, has a lassi of it's own, with wonderful waves of culture. The Sweet Cucumber Lassi (Caribbean) is the perfect companion for a hot sunny day at the beach with a spicy meal. Whether you’re in New York craving something lighter than iced coffee, or in Amsterdam looking for a cooling non-alcoholic treat, this Easy Sweet Cucumber Lassi is approachable and adaptable. Below you’ll find an Authentic Sweet Cucumber Lassi recipe that’s simple to make—no special equipment beyond a blender—and easy to tweak for guests, kids, or vegans. Island in a glass.
Ingredients
-Plain yogurt: 500 g (about 2 cups) — use full-fat for creaminess or low-fat if preferred
-Cucumber: 1 large (about 200-250 g / 7-9 oz), peeled and cut in chunks
-Cold water or ice: 240-360 ml (1-1.5 cups) — adjust for thickness
-Granulated or cane sugar: 3-4 tbsp (45-60 ml) — adjust to taste (honey or agave can be used)
-Fresh juice from 1 lime: 1 tbsp (15 ml)
-Mint leaves: 6-8 leaves (optional)
-Ground cinnamon or toasted coconut for garnish (optional)
-Ice cubes as needed for serving.
Preparation Steps
-Cucumber and yogurt preparation
Peel and cut the cucumber into large pieces. To add some texture to the dish, save some small pieces to mix in later. Scoop the yogurt into the blender.
-Add sweeteners and lime
To the blender, add 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of sugar (for any sweetener you'd prefer), lime juice, and a small amount of salt. Adding lime juice brightens the flavor and salt brings out the sweetness.
-Blend with water and mint
Add 1 cup (240 ml) of cold water or a handful of ice, and the mint leaves if used. Blend on high for 30-60 seconds until super smooth and frothy. You can use thicker lassis but use less water.
-Taste and add more sweetness and/or texture
Take a sip of the lassi and add more sugar (up to 1 tbsp / 15 ml more) and a splash more lime if it tastes dull. If it’s too thick, add 1/2 cup (120 ml) of water and blend briefly.
-Optionally it can be stained for a super smooth texture
In case you want a super silky drink, take the blended lassi and pour it into a pitcher through a fine sieve. Use a spoon to push it through.
-Chill or serve immediately over ice
In case you added ice to the blender, pour the drink right away over new ice. Otherwise, chill in the fridge for 30 minutes while the flavors blend.
-Garnish and enjoy
Pour into taller glasses and add a sprig of mint, a light sprinkle of cinnamon or toasted coconut. Pair with a straw and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
To make a vegan option, swap the yogurt for coconut or soy yogurt and for an Easy Sweet Cucumber Lassi vegan version use maple syrup instead of sugar.
Closing
Try this dish and share it with your friends and family. Remember to come back for more recipes from around the world. If you enjoyed this Sweet Cucumber Lassi recipe, save it and try the different ways to make it. Your favorite drink for the summer could just be a blender away.