Buttermilk—known as chaas in many Indian households—is a timeless drink cherished for its cooling, digestive, and nourishing properties. Beyond the plain salted version, buttermilk can be transformed into various delicious styles by adding simple ingredients already available in your kitchen.

Here are 7 easy and flavorful ways to serve buttermilk, each with its own taste and health benefits.

1. CLASSIC SALTED BUTTERMILK

The most traditional and widely consumed version, this is made by blending curd with water, salt, and roasted cumin powder. Light and cooling, it’s perfect for quenching thirst and aiding digestion on hot days.

Ingredients:

• Curd

• Water

• Salt

• Roasted cumin powder

Tip: Use cold water or add ice for instant refreshment.

2. MASALA CHAACH

This spiced version adds a punch to plain buttermilk. Masala chaach includes black salt, cumin, crushed ginger, green chilli, coriander, and mint leaves. It’s not only flavourful but also excellent for detox and digestion.

Ingredients:

• Curd

• Water

• Black salt

• Ginger

• Green chilli

• Mint and coriander

Best time to have: Midday or after meals.

3. SOUTH INDIAN-STYLE BUTTERMILK

Known as Neer Mor, this version is mildly spiced and tempered. Curry leaves, mustard seeds, and hing (asafoetida) are tempered in oil and added to the buttermilk, giving it a warm, earthy flavour.

Ingredients:

Curd

Water

Curry leaves

Mustard seeds

Ginger

Hing (asafoetida)

Health perk: Great for calming the stomach and reducing bloating.

4. MINT BUTTERMILK

Mint buttermilk is a summer superstar. Fresh mint leaves are blended into the buttermilk for a cooling, refreshing effect. It also helps in relieving nausea and indigestion.

Ingredients:

• Fresh mint leaves

• Curd

• Water

• Salt

• Lemon juice (optional)

Best for: Hot afternoons or after spicy meals.

5. SWEET BUTTERMILK

This is a mild, dessert-like version made by mixing curd with water, sugar, and a touch of cardamom. It’s soothing and especially good for kids or those avoiding spice.

Ingredients:

• Curd

• Water

• Sugar

• Cardamom powder

Serving tip: Serve chilled for a cooling treat.

6. CUCUMBER BUTTERMILK

Grated cucumber is added to spiced buttermilk, offering crunch, fibre, and extra hydration. It’s filling and ideal for light summer lunches.

Ingredients:

• Grated cucumber

• Curd

• Water

• Salt and cumin powder

• Mint or coriander leaves

Health benefit: Hydrating, fiber-rich, and cooling.

7. LEMON-GINGER BUTTERMILK

This variation blends lemon juice and ginger into buttermilk for a tangy, zesty drink. It’s perfect for stimulating appetite and soothing indigestion.

Ingredients:

• Curd

• Water

• Fresh ginger juice

• Lemon juice

• Salt and cumin

Great for: Boosting metabolism and morning detox.

Buttermilk is versatile, affordable, and loaded with health benefits. These seven easy preparations let you enjoy its goodness in different ways every day—whether you’re looking for refreshment, digestion aid, or just a flavorful sip. Mix, match, and customize according to your taste and health needs.