The Cooling Comfort of Buttermilk
A Traditional Drink for Digestion and Hydration
Buttermilk—known as chaach in many parts of India—is a time-honored drink that has been cherished for centuries for its cooling, digestive, and hydrating properties. Light, tangy, and incredibly refreshing, buttermilk is especially popular in the warmer months, when its naturally soothing nature helps the body stay balanced and energized.
Unlike the thick, cultured buttermilk commonly found in American grocery stores, traditional Indian buttermilk is made by churning yogurt with water, often seasoned with salt, roasted cumin powder, ginger, or herbs. This results in a much lighter, tangier drink, known as chaach, that's refreshing and easy on the stomach. While American buttermilk is often used in baking for its acidity and thickness, Indian chaach is savored as a beverage, especially for its digestive and cooling properties.
Buttermilk is packed with electrolytes, making it a natural choice for replenishing hydration—especially during hot weather or after physical activity. Its high content of calcium and potassium also supports bone health and helps regulate fluid balance in the body. The probiotics in chaach contribute to gut health, supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy digestive system and immune function.
In Ayurveda, chaach is often used to balance the pitta dosha, which governs heat, digestion, and metabolism in the body. When pitta is elevated—especially during hot weather—it can lead to excess heat, irritability, or digestive discomfort. Buttermilk’s cooling and calming qualities help soothe this internal fire, making it a go-to remedy for restoring balance. Sipping chaach not only aids in digestion but also brings a sense of lightness and relief, helping the body stay grounded, refreshed, and comfortable during the peak of summer or after a spicy meal.
At Maaji’s Street Kitchen, we’re proud to offer this traditional Indian buttermilk—chaach—as a refreshing new addition to our menu. Made the authentic way, it’s light, tangy, and delicately seasoned to cool you down and support digestion, especially during the summer heat. Whether you're familiar with it or trying it for the first time, we invite you to stop by and enjoy a glass of chaach, now available fresh at Maaji’s. It’s a simple, nourishing way to reconnect with the wisdom of Indian food culture—one sip at a time.