What is Chaas?
Chaas is a curd-based traditional Indian drink. It is as simple as combining salt, spices, and curd. Whisking until well combined. A masala chaas is also known as buttermilk, masala chaach, neer mor, or namkeen lassi. All these names describe the same refreshing, soothing, and energizing summer drink. Health Benefits of Chaas: The good bacteria of curd help improve the body’s general immunity and reduce stomach ailments like irritable bowel, stomach infections, and irregular bowel movements. The additives of ayurvedic ingredients like ginger and cumin powder relieve the stomach of any irritation. Did you also know that buttermilk is full of electrolytes and is one of the best drinks to fight against heat and body water loss, especially during summer?
Homemade Chaas Masala Powder
The homemade chaas masala gives so much depth of flavour to the buttermilk. You need only 3 ingredients – coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and whole peppercorns to make this spice powder at home. This chaas masala powder is easy to make at home, vegan, gluten-free, and storage-friendly. You can store it for 6 months in the refrigerator. The aroma and taste of the masala don’t change at all.
Chaas Recipe Variation
Masala Chaas: A teaspoon of homemade buttermilk spice mix transforms plain chaas into masala chaas. It is a classic flavour that is forever a favourite of mine. Pudina (Mint) Chaas – Adding fresh mint leaves and green chilli to the masala chaas makes the drink an absolute summer favourite. Mint leaves not only make the chaas refreshing but also act as a great cooling agent for the summer heat. Beetroot Chaas – Chukundar, or beetroot chaas is a healthy and delicious drink. Beetroot gives a beautiful pink colour to the chaas, and the addition of ginger; curry leaves add notes of spiciness.
Storage Suggestion
Transfer the masala chaas to a glass jar or mason jar, seal the lid, and store in the fridge for 2 – 3 days or until ready to serve. Keeping buttermilk at room temperature for more than 1 – 2 hours is not recommended, especially in hot and humid climatic conditions. Do not store buttermilk in plastic bottles or containers while travelling. The sourness of the curd might react with the plastic and the outside heat. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter or follow us on Instagram for video recipes.
