Spiced strawberry cardamom lassi is five minutes in a blender and tastes like a strawberry milkshake that grew up: ripe berries, cool yogurt, and a warm hum of cardamom. It is the drink I make when the first strawberries of June show up.
When summer hits, my kitchen is overflowing with fresh, juicy strawberries. While they’re perfect on their own, I love finding new ways to enjoy them. Enter this Spiced Strawberry Cardamom Lassi! It takes the classic, creamy yogurt drink and gives it a sophisticated, aromatic twist with a hint of warm cardamom. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot afternoon—a refreshing, vibrant, and utterly delicious treat that comes together in minutes.
Ingredients
• 1 pint / 340g (12 oz) fresh strawberries
• 4 tablespoons / 60ml (2 fl oz) water or plant-based milk
• 2 cups / 480g plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• 4 tablespoons / 50g (1.76 oz) granulated sugar, or to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fruit: Wash the strawberries thoroughly, remove the green leafy tops (hull them), and slice them into quarters.
2. Combine : Place the quartered strawberries, water or milk, Greek yogurt, and ground cardamom into a high-speed blender.
3. Blend Until Smooth: Secure the lid and blend on high for 30-60 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
4. Sweeten to Taste: Add the sugar, starting with a couple of tablespoons. Blend again briefly, then taste. Continue adding sugar until it reaches your desired level of sweetness.
5. Serve Immediately: Pour the lassi into four chilled glasses. Garnish with a mint sprig or a slice of strawberry, if desired, and enjoy right away.
Nutritional Information
• Nutrition (per serving)
• Calories: 185 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
Pro Tips
• Pro-Tips
• For an extra thick and frosty lassi, use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones. You may need to add an extra splash of water or milk to help it blend.
• To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plain, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (like coconut or soy) and use plant-based milk.
• For the most vibrant flavor, use freshly ground cardamom. Lightly toast 6 green cardamom pods, remove the seeds, and grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with sweeteners. Maple syrup, agave nectar, or honey (if not vegan) all work beautifully and add their own unique flavor notes.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this strawberry lassi vegan
A: Yes, this recipe is easily adapted for a vegan diet. Simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plain, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt like coconut or soy, and use water or your favorite plant-based milk. For sweetener, use sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar.
Q: Is this lassi a good source of vegetarian protein
A: Absolutely. When made with traditional Greek yogurt, a single serving of this lassi provides about 12 grams (0.42 oz) of protein, making it a satisfying and protein-rich vegetarian beverage. If using a dairy-free yogurt, the protein content will vary depending on the brand and type you choose.
Q: What other vegetarian sweeteners can I use
A: This recipe is very flexible with sweeteners. Besides granulated sugar, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a delicious vegan alternative. Honey is also a great option for vegetarians who are not following a strict vegan diet.
Q: How long can I store this vegetarian lassi
A: This strawberry lassi is best served immediately for optimal freshness and texture. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It may separate slightly, so just give it a good stir or shake before enjoying.
Pro Tips
- Freeze the strawberries first if you want a thick, frosty lassi. Frozen fruit chills and thickens the drink without watering it down.
- Grind the cardamom fresh if you possibly can. Pre-ground cardamom goes dusty and dull, and there is nowhere to hide in a drink this simple.
- Blend the strawberries alone first, then add the yogurt. A smooth puree means no chunky sips at the bottom of the glass.
- Sweeten last and sparingly. Taste after blending, since ripe berries often need less sugar than you expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lassi vegan?
Yes. Use the plant-based milk and a dairy-free yogurt alternative; the strawberries and cardamom carry the flavor either way.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Frozen actually makes a thicker, colder lassi. Add a splash more milk to loosen it if it becomes too thick to pour.
How long does it keep?
Drink it fresh if you can; it separates and dulls within hours. A quick re-blend will revive it for a day at most.
Can I use other berries?
You can, but strawberry and cardamom are a classic pair for a reason. Other berries work well and simply make a different, less traditional drink.
Recipe card below.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Vegetarian Almond Fruit Cocktail Float
- Lemon Ginger Turmeric Tea
- Authentic Kashmiri Kahwa (Saffron Tea)
Spiced Strawberry Cardamom Lassi
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash the strawberries thoroughly, remove the green leafy tops (hull them), and slice them into quarters.
- Combine : Place the quartered strawberries, water or milk, Greek yogurt, and ground cardamom into a high-speed blender.
- Blend Until Smooth: Secure the lid and blend on high for 30-60 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Sweeten to Taste: Add the sugar, starting with a couple of tablespoons.
- Blend again briefly, then taste.
- Continue adding sugar until it reaches your desired level of sweetness.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the lassi into four chilled glasses.
- Garnish with a mint sprig or a slice of strawberry, if desired, and enjoy right away.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with sweeteners. Maple syrup, agave nectar, or honey (if not vegan) all work beautifully and add their own unique flavor notes.
