If you’ve ever worked on a crossword puzzle and come across the clue “cold yogurt drink,” you might have been stumped. The answer? Lassi. This cool, creamy drink comes from India and is enjoyed around the world. It’s also a favorite in crossword puzzles because of its short length and unique letters. But what exactly is lassi, and why does it appear so often in puzzles? Let’s dive into the details!
What is Lassi?
Lassi is a drink made by blending yogurt with water, sugar, or spices. It’s a great way to cool down on a hot day and can be sweet or savory. Here are the main types of lassi:
- Sweet Lassi: Made with sugar and sometimes flavored with cardamom or rosewater.
- Salty Lassi: Mixed with salt, cumin, and sometimes mint.
- Mango Lassi: A sweet version with mango puree, loved by people all over the world.
People drink lassi not just because it tastes good, but because it helps the body stay cool and aids digestion.
A Drink With a Long History
Lassi has been around for thousands of years. It comes from India, where it’s part of traditional medicine called Ayurveda. In hot weather, lassi cools the body and calms the stomach. It’s also a common drink at celebrations, festivals, and when welcoming guests. In many places, you can find it sold by street vendors in clay cups, which add a unique earthy taste【35】【36】.
Why Does Lassi Appear in Crosswords?
If you solve crosswords, you’ve probably seen “lassi” more than once. Here’s why it’s a favorite clue:
- Five Letters: Many crossword puzzles need five-letter words, and lassi fits perfectly.
- Unique Letters: The double “S” and the “I” make it different from other words, which is great for puzzle-making.
- Global Popularity: Thanks to Indian restaurants worldwide, many people know the word “lassi,” even if they’ve never been to India【36】【37】.
The Health Benefits of Lassi
Lassi isn’t just tasty—it’s also good for you! Here’s why:
- Helps Digestion: The yogurt in lassi is full of good bacteria that help your stomach stay healthy.
- Cools the Body: On a hot day, drinking lassi can help lower your body temperature.
- Provides Nutrients: It’s full of calcium, protein, and vitamins that are important for your body.
- Keeps You Hydrated: Blended with water, lassi helps you stay hydrated when it’s hot outside【35】【37】.
How to Make Lassi at Home
Making lassi is easy! Here’s a simple recipe to try at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- ½ cup cold water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- A pinch of cardamom (optional)
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
- Put the yogurt, water, sugar, and cardamom in a blender.
- Blend until smooth and frothy.
- Pour into a glass, add ice if you like, and enjoy!
You can also add fruit like mango or strawberries to make a fruity version【34】【36】.
Lassi Around the World
Even though lassi started in India, it’s now popular all over the world. You can find it in Indian restaurants in the United States, Europe, and many other countries. Mango lassi is especially well-known and is often listed on menus as a refreshing drink to enjoy with spicy food【37】【36】.
Conclusion
The next time you see “cold yogurt drink” in a crossword, you’ll know the answer is Lassi. But now you also know it’s more than just a crossword answer! It’s a delicious, healthy drink with a rich history and lots of health benefits. Whether you’re solving puzzles or looking for a new drink to try, lassi is a word—and a drink—you won’t forget.