Name: Roasted Mango or Banana Lassi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-496759H18M8S
Total time: PT-496759H18M8S
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 ripe medium mangoes or bananas, peeled and cut into large chunks; ½ cup brown sugar; ½ vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds scraped; 1 green cardamom pod, lightly crushed; 2 cups plain whole milk yogurt; ½ cup whole milk; ½ cup ice

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Introduction

This roasted mango or banana lassi is a delightful twist on a classic Indian yogurt drink. Roasting the fruit brings out deep, caramelized flavors that blend perfectly with creamy yogurt for a refreshing and unique treat.

Two tall clear glasses stand side by side on a white marbled surface, each filled with a creamy layered drink. The left glass contains a smooth, thick mango yellow layer filling the glass, while the right glass holds a lighter beige creamy mixture with tiny brown specks. Both glasses have clear glass straws placed inside. To the left of the glasses is a small white jar with a spoon resting inside, and behind it, a glass bottle with white liquid. A silver spoon with some yellow creamy residue lies in front of the yellow drink. On the right side of the image, a soft yellow cloth with a checkered pattern rests on the white marbled surface. The background is a subtle, textured neutral wall. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 ripe medium mangoes or bananas, peeled and cut into large chunks
½ cup brown sugar
½ vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds scraped
1 green cardamom pod, lightly crushed
2 cups plain whole milk yogurt
½ cup whole milk
½ cup ice

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Place the fruit in a small ovenproof skillet or baking dish. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the fruit, then add the vanilla bean seeds and pod along with the crushed cardamom pod. Stir gently so the fruit is evenly coated with sugar and spices.
Step 3: Roast the fruit until it becomes soft, stirring every 5 minutes. Continue roasting until most of the liquid has evaporated and starts to bubble and thicken—this takes about 25 to 30 minutes for bananas and around 40 minutes for mangoes. Be careful not to overcook, as the sugar can stick to the pan.
Step 4: Remove the vanilla bean pod and cardamom pod, then let the fruit cool completely. Refrigerate the fruit until chilled. You can prepare this step several hours or even the day before serving.
Step 5: Measure out ¾ cup of the chilled roasted fruit. In a blender, combine it with the yogurt, milk, and ice. Blend just until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 6: Serve the lassi immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free option, substitute yogurt and milk with coconut yogurt and coconut milk.
You can adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or adding a drizzle of honey after blending if you prefer.
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming spice note.
If fresh vanilla beans aren’t available, use ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract added after roasting.

Storage

Store leftover roasted fruit in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Prepared lassi is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Stir gently before serving and add a little milk if it thickens too much. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.

How to Serve

Two tall clear glasses filled with creamy drinks sit side by side on a white marbled surface. The glass on the left contains a smooth, bright yellow drink with a thick texture, while the glass on the right holds a light beige drink with visible specks, suggesting a spiced flavor. Both glasses have clear glass straws inside. In the background, there is a large clear bottle filled with milk, and a small clear jar with thick white yogurt and a silver spoon resting inside. A vintage silver spoon lies on the surface in front of the drinks, and a yellow and gray striped cloth is slightly crumpled on the right side of the frame. The scene is softly lit with natural light, creating warm shadows and emphasizing the creamy textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh fruit provides the best texture and flavor when roasted. If using frozen, thaw and drain any excess water before roasting.

Is it necessary to roast the fruit?

Roasting enhances the sweetness and adds a rich caramelized flavor, but you can blend raw fruit for a fresher, lighter taste if preferred.