Masala Mattha
इस व्यंजन को हिन्दी में पढ़ें
Mattha, also known as Chaas/ Chaaach (छाछ), is one of the most traditional and favorite coolants of India. In English it is known as buttermilk. It is a healthy and delicious drink that can be served any time. Mattha is a very good coolant during the summers: it helps to protect against sunstroke (लू) in burning summer afternoons.
Mattha is made from yogurt. Yogurt is more commonly known as curd in India. In Hindi we call it दही (dahi). It is one of the best sources of calcium for vegetarians and is also rich in proteins and Vitamin B. Yogurt is made by natural bacterial fermentation of milk. In this process the lactose of milk converts into lactic acid and this makes yogurt more easily digestible than milk.
In order to make Mattha, the curd is whisked well and then water is added to dilute the curd into a drink consistency. Mattha is then seasoned with salt, roasted and ground cumin, and Indian herbs. As per Ayurvedic traditions, black salt and rock salt (sendha namak) are better for human body than iodized sea-salt so in this recipe I have used black salt and rock salt. I have also used mint powder and roasted and ground cumin to increase the flavor. Please do try this recipe and share your valuable comments. With best wishes, Shuchi
Ingredients (makes 4 servings)
- Plain yogurt(dahi) 1½ cups
- Black salt ½ tsp
- Rock salt (sendha namak) 1 tsp or to taste
- Mint powder 1 tsp
- Roasted and grounded cumin1½ tsp
- Black pepper powder ½ tsp (optional)
- Water 2½ cups
Method of preparation
- I have used homemade curds/yogurt made from 2% cow milk.
- Whisk the yogurt thoroughly. Add water. Whisk again. Add black salt, rock salt, roasted and ground cumin, and mint powder. You can also add some black pepper if you want to. Mix well.
- Delicious masala mattha is ready to serve. You can add some ice cubes in summers.
- Mattha can be served anytime with meals or even otherwise. It is also a very good welcome drink in summers. Mattha also goes very well with khichdi.
Some Tips/ Suggestions:
- You can make roasted and ground cumin, and mint powder and store it in airtight containers.
- In case the curd is a little sour you can add a some milk to make it mild.
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Roasted n Ground Cumin
Cumin seeds have a nutty taste and are an aromatic spice. Cumin seeds are one of the most common ingredients in the North Indian spice box. They are used for the preparation of lentils (Dals), vegetables, pickles, curries etc. Roasted and ground cumin are also very commonly used spices in North Indian Cuisine. Roasted and ground cumin are used for yogurt dishes, Indian drinks, chaat items, chole etc...
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Mint Powder
Mint is an exotic, excellent aromatic herb; it contains Vitamin A and C and is also rich in a number of minerals. Mint leaves are a good coolant and are known for their medicinal values. They are also considered as a good digestive. Mint has an important place in Indian cuisine...
