Kama Ayurveda’s Recipe: Saffron Pistachio Lassi

Origins and properties

Drawn from the Sanskrit word {lassiya} meaning ‘to mix’, lassi, known as the ‘ancient smoothie’, has remained a firm favourite across India since 1000BC. Traditionally used to provide cool refreshment in the heat of summer, in Ayurveda, lassi is also prized for its healing properties: a tonic of calm for the stomach and the mind.

To the simple lassi base blend of water and yoghurt, many fruits and spices can be added to tailor and refine its healing properties. Of course, with the potent immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties that give our Kumkumadi collection its power, saffron is central to the Kama Ayurveda recipe, along with a handful of pistachios for their positive impact on sleep, appetite, anxiety, and even sensuality.

Recipe:

Effortless to work up in a blender, this lassi is the ultimate uplifting comfort recipe.

Serves 3

- 250g plain yoghurt

- 3 tbsp wholemeal sugar or rapadura

- 2 cardamom seeds

- 60ml of milk

- A handful of shelled pistachios

- 2 ice cubes

- A good pinch of saffron

1. Blend the yogurt very finely with the saffron, sugar, cardamom, and half of the pistachios. Once the mixture reaches a smooth texture, blend again while adding milk and ice cubes.

2. Divide the lassi mixture between glasses and garnish with the remainder of pistachios, finely crushed, and a few saffron pistils. Serve very chilled.