Friday, September 13, 2013

Sambhaaram / Chhaas / Spiced Buttermilk

Sambhaaram, the Kerala version of Chhaas is a good summer drink that helps to cool the body and is a way to increase the liquid intake. It is also a healthy drink especially if the amount of salt that's added into it is controlled. Sambhaaram has ginger and curry leaves in it and is known to aid digestion especially after a feast. As children, we were responsible to pick some lemon and curry leaves from the garden especially for the after Onam and Vishu feast drink. Crushed lemon leaves, if you can get some, is a refreshing addition to this Chhaas.
Traditionally, sambhaaram is served at the end of the meal but if had sometime before a meal it helps in filling up the stomach healthily and in reducing the food intake.
Ingredients
Curds / plain Yogurt - 1/2 cup
Water - 1 cup
Curry leaves - 2
Ginger - 1/2tsp
Salt to taste
Green chilli - 1/2 (optional)
In container combine the curds / plain yogurt and water and beat it till well blended. Crush the ginger, green chilli (if using) and the curry leaves and add it to the buttermilk along with salt. Beat well to make it a little frothy. Pour it out into a glass and it's ready to be served.

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