Indian Spiced Buttermilk (Mattha Recipe | Chaas Recipe)

What Is Mattha or Masala Chaas?

Indian Spiced Buttermilk, also called Mattha or Chaas, is a traditional yogurt-based drink made by blending yogurt with water, roasted cumin, black salt, and herbs. It is served chilled alongside Indian meals and is known for its light, refreshing taste.

While recipes vary slightly by region, the basic concept remains the same. Fresh yogurt is whisked with water until smooth and frothy, then flavored with digestive spices.

Unlike cultured buttermilk commonly sold in grocery stores, Indian chaas is made from fresh homemade yogurt. The consistency can be adjusted according to preference, making it either thick or thin. Many Indian families make and consume chaas daily, especially during warmer months when chilled beverages become a welcome addition to meals.

Why You'll Love This Chaas Recipe

This homemade mattha recipe is a favorite for many reasons. A drink that is savory, aromatic, and incredibly refreshing.

• Ready in less than 5 minutes
• Naturally refreshing and flavorful
• Easy to customize with herbs and spices
• Perfect alongside Indian meals
• Budget-friendly and beginner-friendly
• Great way to use extra yogurt
• Calcium and Protein Rich

Ingredients You'll Need

Plain Yogurt

Use fresh plain yogurt (also called curd) with a smooth texture. Homemade yogurt works beautifully, but store-bought plain whole milk yogurt also gives excellent results. To make it vegan, use plant based yogurt like almond yogurt or oat milk yogurt.

Roasted Cumin Powder

Roasted cumin adds earthy warmth and is one of the signature flavors in authentic Indian buttermilk.

Black Salt

Black salt contributes a distinctive savory taste that makes chaas uniquely flavorful.

Fresh Ginger

A small amount of ginger adds brightness and subtle spice.

Cilantro or Mint

Fresh herbs add freshness and vibrant flavor.

How to Make Indian Spiced Buttermilk

Step 1: Blend the Yogurt

Add yogurt to a large mixing bowl. Pour in chilled water and blend until completely smooth and frothy. In India, typically a wooden churner is used. You can also use blender, hand mixer, whisk or a buttermilk churner.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Add roasted cumin powder, black salt, minced ginger, and herbs.

Step 3: Blend Again

Blend for a few seconds until everything is fully combined.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Pour into serving glasses and enjoy immediately. Garnish with additional cumin powder, chopped cilantro, or mint leaves.

Traditional Variations of Mattha

One of the reasons this recipe has remained popular for generations is its versatility. You can add more earthy spices to your liking.

Spicy Masala Chaas

Add a pinch of chaat masala and black pepper for additional complexity. You can also add hing (asafetida), minced green chili, red pepper to make it spicy.

Curry Leaf Chaas

Blend fresh curry leaves for a South Indian-inspired variation.

What Does Chaas Taste Like?

If you've never tried flavored Indian buttermilk before, imagine a light yogurt drink with savory spices and fresh herbs. It has a mildly tangy flavor balanced by cumin, herbs, and salt. The texture is thin, smooth, and incredibly refreshing. The frothy consistency and aromatic spices make every sip enjoyable.

Tips for the Best Mattha Recipe

Use Fresh Yogurt

Fresh yogurt creates the cleanest and most balanced flavor. Full-fat yogurt will yield creamy texture.

Serve Chilled

Cold chaas tastes significantly more refreshing than room-temperature chaas.

Use Roasted Cumin

Freshly roasted cumin powder provides deeper flavor than pre-ground cumin.

Blend Well

A quick blend creates the signature frothy texture that makes homemade chaas special.

Adjust Consistency

Add more water for a lighter drink or less water for a creamier version.

Serving Suggestions

Indian spiced buttermilk pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. The cool, savory flavors complement rich and spicy dishes particularly well.

Serve it with:

• Variety of rice dishes including Matar pulao, Jeera Rice, or Khichadi
• Typical Indian Curries including Chana masala, Rajma curry as well as Kala Chana Curry.
• Different Parathas like Aloo paratha, Stuffed paratha
• Street Food accompaniment like Pav bhaji, Misal Pav and Ragda Pattice.
• With afternoon snacks including Roasted Poha Chivda , Rice Krispies Chivada, and Kolhapuri Bhadang.

Cooling and Traditional Appeal

For generations, mattha has been enjoyed throughout India as a refreshing beverage served alongside meals. The combination of yogurt and water creates a light drink that feels particularly enjoyable during warmer weather.

Yogurt naturally contains calcium and protein which makes this drink very satisfying. The spices and herbs contribute layers of flavor while aiding digestion. Many families have their own treasured versions, passed down through generations and adapted to local tastes.

What makes chaas truly special is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, it transforms everyday yogurt into a flavorful beverage that has stood the test of time.

Storage Tips

Chaas is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator. Keep it in a covered container for up to 24 hours.

Before serving, stir or whisk well since natural separation may occur.

Avoid freezing, as the texture can become grainy after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between chaas and lassi?

Chaas is a savory yogurt drink made with water, spices, and herbs. Lassi is typically thicker and often sweetened with sugar, fruit, or flavorings.

Can I make vegan chaas?

Yes. Use plain unsweetened dairy-free yogurt made from almond, cashew, coconut, oats or soy milk.

Can I make chaas without a blender?

Absolutely. Whisk the yogurt and water vigorously until smooth, then stir in the seasonings.

What is the best yogurt for chaas?

Plain yogurt with a smooth texture works best. Both homemade and store-bought yogurt are excellent choices.

Can I make chaas ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve. Stir well before serving.