Yes, lassi is generally allowed during fasting periods where dairy products are permitted, such as during Navratri.
Understanding Fasting and Allowed Foods
During many traditional Indian fasts, the consumption of certain food items is restricted to observe spiritual discipline. However, specific food groups are often permitted to sustain energy. Commonly allowed items include fruits, nuts, certain flours (like Kuttu, Singhara, or Sabudana), and importantly, dairy products.
Dairy in Fasting
Dairy products are a significant part of the permitted diet in many fasting traditions. As stated in the reference:
Milk, yoghurt, and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) are allowed during Navratri fasting.
This highlights that the core components of dairy are acceptable for consumption.
Is Lassi Permitted?
Since yoghurt is explicitly allowed, beverages made from yoghurt are also typically permitted. Lassi is a traditional Indian drink made by blending yoghurt with water or milk, and sometimes spices or fruit.
The reference directly supports the inclusion of lassi:
You can make lassi, yoghourt-based dips, or paneer dishes.
This confirms that preparing and consuming lassi is considered acceptable during fasting periods like Navratri where dairy is allowed.
Key Considerations for Fasting Lassi
While the base ingredient (yoghurt) is permitted, it's crucial to be mindful of other ingredients when making lassi for fasting:
- Sweeteners: Refined sugar is often restricted. Consider using alternatives like rock sugar (mishri), jaggery, or natural fruit sweetness if your fast allows.
- Fruits: Adding fruits like mango, banana, or berries is usually fine, but specific fasts might have rules about certain fruits.
- Spices/Flavorings: Simple additions like cardamom are typically allowed, but avoid ingredients that are usually restricted during fasting.
In essence, if your fasting observance permits dairy, then a lassi made with allowed ingredients is a suitable drink.
