High Protein Mango Lassi Recipe

I absolutely love this mango lassi recipe because it captures the perfect balance of creamy and tropical flavors, making it an irresistible treat that feels both indulgent and healthy. Plus, the hint of cardamom adds a delightful twist that elevates the drink, making me feel like I’m sipping a little bit of sunshine in a glass!

I love to make recipes that highlight the combination of flavor and nutrition, and this High Protein Mango Lassi is a perfect case in point. Lassi is a traditional Indian yogurt drink, and it’s common to see smoothies made with yogurt across many cultures.

The use of yogurt in this lassi gives it a deliciously creamy base and a probiotic boost. But in this recipe, I take it a step further by adding protein powder to the mix for an even bigger bang of lassi good-for-you-ness.

Ingredients

Mango: A delicious tropical fruit abundant in the vitamins A and C that knows how to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Greek yogurt is creamy and tangy.

It is packed with protein and supports gut health.

Dairy: Imparts a buttery richness; nut-based milks can add nuttiness, while oat milk is a great substitute for cream.

Vanilla Protein Powder: Increases the amount of protein, which helps with the growth and repair of muscles.

Maple Syrup or Honey: Natural sweeteners that offset the tartness, and they bring their own antioxidant-rich goodness.

Powdered Cardamom: An aromatic spice possessing a warm, sweet taste; beneficial to the digestive system.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup fresh ripe mango, peeled, pitted and cubed (or 1 cup frozen mango cubes, thawed)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat or 2% for creaminess)
• 1/2 cup milk (almond, cow, or oat milk can be used)
• 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• Ice cubes (optional, for a chilled lassi)

Instructions

1. Peel and pit the fresh mango, then slice it into small cubes. If you are using frozen mango, be sure it is thawed completely before cutting it into the same-sized pieces.

2. In a blender, combine 1 cup of mango, cut into cubes.

3. In the blender, add 1 cup of creamy Greek yogurt for a thick, smooth texture.

4. Use any type of milk you prefer, pouring 1/2 cup into the blender. This is your chance to introduce a variety of flavors, depending on the type of milk you use.

5. Add 1/4 cup of vanilla protein powder to increase the protein content in the lassi.

6. If you want a sweeter lassi, you can add 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.

7. Add to this 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder for the warm, aromatic flavor it brings.

8. You can optionally add a handful of ice cubes if you want a drink that is chilled and refreshing.

9. Combine all the elements in a high-speed blender until the outcome is smooth and creamy.

10. Serve the lassi right away, pouring it into glasses and adorning it, if you wish, with additional slices of mango or a very light sprinkle of ground cardamom. Then enjoy the deliciously cool drink!

Equipment Needed

1. Peeler
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Blender
5. Measuring cups
6. Measuring spoons
7. Glasses for serving

FAQ

• Can I use non-dairy yogurt in this recipe?Indeed, non-dairy replacements like coconut or almond yogurt can be used in place of Greek yogurt to make this recipe suitable for vegans.
• What type of protein powder is best for this lassi?Any vanilla protein powder can be used, including whey, pea, or plant-based blends, depending on your dietary preferences.
• Is fresh mango necessary, or can I use canned mango pulp?For the best flavor, fresh mango is preferred; however, as a substitute, canned mango pulp without added sugars can be used.
• Can I skip the sweetener in the recipe?Certainly. The honey or maple syrup is optional. If the mango is sweet enough for your taste, feel free to leave it out.
• How can I make the lassi thicker?To achieve a thicker lassi, use less milk or more Greek yogurt if you want to.
• Is the cardamom powder essential?The lassi has a traditional flavor of cardamom, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out or use a pinch of cinnamon for a different spin.
• Can I make this lassi ahead of time?You can prepare it in advance and serve it very cold, almost as a slushy. But make sure to stir it well before serving, as it has a tendency to separate.

Substitutions and Variations

If you lack mango, you might try using papaya or peaches, both of which can be subbed for mango. These are not hard to find in most grocery stores or online. They may come with a different set of flavors, but that’s just life. We make do.
To make Greek yogurt: Use coconut yogurt to create a dairy-free version.
For milk: Use soy milk or coconut milk if you’re looking for a dietary alternative.
For protein powder: As a substitute, employ unflavored or flavored collagen powder.
If you want to use something other than honey or maple syrup for sweetness: Try agave nectar or just a few drops of stevia.

Pro Tips

1. For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the blender. The acidity of the lime will enhance the sweetness of the mango and give the lassi a refreshing twist.

2. Before blending, freeze the Greek yogurt in an ice cube tray for a thicker, more milkshake-like consistency without diluting the flavors with ice cubes.

3. Roast the cardamom powder briefly in a dry pan over low heat before adding it to the blender. This will enhance its flavor and aroma, making the lassi even more fragrant.

4. To add a hint of richness, include a tablespoon of coconut cream or a small segment of ripe banana. This will provide additional creaminess and a subtle tropical note.

5. If you prefer a less sweet lassi, consider using unsweetened plain Greek yogurt and adjusting the honey or maple syrup to taste, starting with less and increasing as needed.