Try this Wild Blueberry Mango Lassi for a refreshing twist on the classic yogurt-based drink, and get a boost of antioxidants from these ‘wild’ ingredients.
BY: CARA HARBSTREET, MS, RD, LD
Have you ever tried mango lassi? Until a few years ago, I had not, but let me tell you, once I did it was like love at first sip. The creamy texture, sweet flavor, and subtle hints of exotic spices were so, so good and unlike anything I had tried before then.
Since discovering them, I’ve attempted to make it a few times on my own at home but could never quite replicate the exact taste. However, I decided to give it one more shot with a twist:
Wild blueberries.
This smoothie runs risk of offending the mango lassi traditionalists, but it’s a risk I’m willing to take because this turned out ah-mazing.
Wild Blueberries have a wonderful tart, yet sweet, flavor that nicely complements an ultra-sweet fruit like mango. To keep things simple, use only frozen fruit (although when mangoes are in season, feel free to go crazy with the fresh).
Frozen fruit is a great option, especially during winter months, because fruit is picked at the peak of ripeness while it’s in season. In the case of frozen Wild Blueberries, they undergo the IQF process (individual quick freezing) so you can easily measure the amount you need, rather than getting stuck with one massive clump of frozen fruit.
Wild Blueberries are truly wild – they are grown in barrens of Maine and Eastern Canada in a network of interconnected plants. Since they aren’t cultivated, there’s a unique flavor that really stands out when compared to the cultivated blueberries I usually pick up at the grocery store or market.
How do you know if what you’re getting is wild or not? Check them for the color.
Wild blueberries have a darker pigment which is a sign of their higher antioxidant content. Also, check the size, because wild blueberries are a more compact version of their cultivated cousins. Lots of goodness squeezed into a smaller package! Look for them in the frozen aisle. Most brands label them as “Wild” which makes it easier to find.
With a kefir base, this smoothie provides a food-based source of gut-friendly probiotics. The plain version is recommended (which is much lower in added sugar), but this recipe is also delicious with vanilla, coconut, and of course mango versions. Look for it in the refrigerated section of your grocery store alongside the yogurt and milk.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup frozen Wild Blueberries
- 1 cup frozen mango chunks
- 1 cup plain kefir
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
So get wild and start your morning with this Wild Blueberry Mango Lassi. Enjoy!
Head over to the original article for the full recipe and instructions.
HEADER IMAGE: KAROLINA GRABOWSKA // IMAGE: CARA HARBSTREET
Cara Harbstreet, MS, RD, LD is a Kansas City-based Registered Dietitian helping individuals jumpstart their journey to wellness. By breaking the cycle of dieting, Cara focuses on creating sustainable lifestyle changes for people who are motivated to reclaim their health. Connect with Cara over at Street Smart Nutrition.