Homemade Plain Buttermilk
Beverages • India
How to Make Homemade Plain Buttermilk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Homemade Plain Buttermilk, known as 'Chaas' in Hindi and 'Majige' in Kannada, is a refreshing Indian beverage cherished across the country for its cooling properties and digestive benefits. Originating from the heartlands of Gujarat and Rajasthan, buttermilk is a staple in Indian households, especially during the sweltering summer months. Its light, tangy flavor is achieved by blending fresh curd (dahi) with water and aromatic spices like jeera (cumin) and hing (asafoetida), making it both flavorful and soothing. Chaas is traditionally served after meals to aid digestion and is a common offering during festivals such as Holi and Diwali, when heavy foods are consumed. It’s celebrated for its simplicity, versatility, and ability to complement spicy Indian cuisine, making it a great choice for calorie-conscious individuals. Whether enjoyed plain or with a hint of fresh coriander and ginger, Homemade Plain Buttermilk embodies the essence of Indian hospitality and regional diversity, offering a taste that’s both familiar and comforting, perfect for every season.
Ingredients(for 1 glass (about 250 ml))
- 1 cup Curd (Dahi) (Fresh, homemade)
- 2 cups Water (Chilled)
- 1/2 tsp Roasted cumin powder (Jeera powder) (Jeera)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (Sendha namak for festivals)
- 1/4 tsp Black salt (Kala namak) (Enhances flavor) - optional
- A pinch Asafoetida (Hing) (Optional for aroma) - optional
- 1 tbsp, finely chopped Fresh coriander leaves (Dhania) (Optional, for garnish) - optional
- 1/2 inch, grated Ginger (Adrak) (Optional, for digestion) - optional
- 1, finely chopped Green chili (Optional, for a spicy kick) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Add fresh curd (dahi) to a deep bowl or jug.
2 minutes
Use homemade curd for best taste and probiotic benefits.
- 2
Pour in chilled water and whisk the mixture thoroughly until smooth and frothy.
3 minutes
Use a traditional wooden 'mathani' (hand churner) or a hand blender for authentic texture.
- 3
Add roasted cumin powder (jeera), salt, and black salt. Mix well.
2 minutes
Roast cumin seeds before grinding for deeper flavor.
- 4
If desired, add a pinch of hing, grated ginger, and chopped green chili for enhanced aroma and digestive benefits.
2 minutes
Adjust ginger and chili to your spice preference.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Buttermilk is a healthy choice due to its high probiotic content, which aids digestion and supports a healthy gut microbiome. It’s naturally low in calories and fat, making it suitable for weight management and diabetes-friendly diets. The spices added not only boost flavor but also improve metabolism and provide antioxidants, making this beverage a smart, nourishing addition to any meal.
Homemade Plain Buttermilk is low in calories and fat, making it a perfect beverage for calorie-conscious diets. It is rich in probiotics, essential for gut health, and contains calcium, potassium, and vitamins B2 and B12. The addition of spices like cumin and ginger enhances digestion and metabolism. With minimal carbohydrates and moderate protein from curd, chaas is a hydrating choice ideal for maintaining electrolyte balance in hot climates.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly made curd for the creamiest and most probiotic-rich chaas.
- 💡Tip 2: Roast cumin seeds and grind at home for authentic flavor.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust water to get your preferred consistency—thicker for a meal, thinner for a beverage.
Storage & Serving
Store buttermilk in a covered jug in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before serving for best consistency. Avoid storing for longer as it may turn sour.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 70.0 kcal |
