Yes, lassi is strongly associated with Punjabi cuisine. It's a popular and traditional drink from the Punjab region of India and Pakistan.
What is Lassi?
Lassi is a creamy, chilled beverage made primarily from yogurt (dahi), often with added milk, sugar, and sometimes spices or fruits. It's known for its refreshing and cooling properties, making it a favorite during hot weather. Many variations exist, including sweet lassi ( Meethi Lassi), salty lassi, and flavored lassis incorporating mango, strawberry, and other ingredients.
Lassi's Punjabi Roots
Multiple sources confirm lassi's origins and popularity in Punjab:
- Sweet Lassi, a yogurt-based creamy, sweetened, and chilled beverage from Punjabi cuisine, is a popular drink in North India. ([Reference 1])
- Numerous online recipes, such as the "Authentic Punjabi Style" lassi recipe on Dassana's Veg Recipes ([Reference 2]), highlight its Punjabi connection.
- Descriptions refer to lassi as Punjab's "best-loved summer drink" and the form in which yogurt is "most cherished" ([Reference 7]).
- Recipes explicitly label lassi as a "classic Punjabi drink" ([Reference 6]).
While lassi is enjoyed across India and beyond, its strong association with Punjabi culture and cuisine makes it accurate to consider it a Punjabi drink.
