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Enjoy sipping on the most intoxicating local favourites of the city.
As the crisp January air embraced Varanasi, I embarked on a weekend getaway from Delhi to immerse myself in the cultural richness of this ancient city. Among the many renowned attractions and experiences that Varanasi offers, I was particularly intrigued by the legendary blue and green lassi shops. These iconic establishments have gained popularity for their refreshing lassi varieties that are infused with bhang. Before you begin questioning the legality of these enterprises, you should know that these shops are Government-recognised and authorised to sell drinks laced with bhang. With great anticipation, I set out to taste the famous blue and green lassi, while also learning about the stories behind their long-standing fame.
Located in the busy lanes of Varanasi's old city, the Blue Lassi Shop has been serving iconic lassi concoctions for generations. As I entered the shop, I was immediately captivated by its vibrant blue exterior, adorned with colourful artwork and lively motifs. Stepping inside, the aroma of freshly churned yoghurt and a blend of aromatic spices enveloped the air. Behind the counter stood the shop's owner, Mr. Puran Lal—a gracious man with a warm smile. He proudly shared the history of the shop, which dates back to the 1950s. It began as a small roadside stall, serving homemade lassi to locals and pilgrims visiting the city. Over time, word of their delicious lassi spread far and wide, attracting travellers from across the globe.
Eager to sample the renowned blue lassi, I placed my order. Mr. Puran Lal skillfully prepared the drink, pouring fresh homemade yoghurt into a kulhad—a traditional earthenware cup. He then blended it with a secret mix of ingredients that included saffron, cardamom, pistachios, and a touch of rose water. As I took my first sip, the smooth and creamy texture of the lassi delighted my taste buds. The flavours were a symphony of sweet, tangy, and fragrant notes, harmoniously blending with each other. Each subsequent sip offered a tantalising experience, leaving me craving for more. It was no wonder that the Blue Lassi Shop had gained a loyal following over the years. All the lassis at the shop are priced between Rs. 70 and Rs. 100.
Not far from the Blue Lassi Shop, nestled amidst the maze-like lanes of Varanasi, was the Green Lassi Shop. This charming establishment has been serving its signature green lassi for over five decades. As I approached the shop, its humble yet inviting ambience instantly caught my attention. Inside, I met Mr. Ravi Verma, the grandson of the founder, who shared the story behind the establishment of the shop. It all began when his grandfather started experimenting with different ingredients, aiming to create a lassi that was unique in taste. Eventually, his trials bore fruit; he created a magical blend of mint, spinach, and other herbs that transformed the lassi into a vibrant green delight. This innovative creation soon became a hit among locals and travellers alike.
With a glass of the famed green lassi in hand, I marvelled at its beautiful emerald hue. The refreshing aroma of mint and the taste of freshly churned yoghurt merged seamlessly, creating a revitalising experience. The green lassi possessed a subtle tanginess and a hint of herbal freshness that made it the perfect companion for Varanasi's warm climate. As I relished each sip, I couldn't help but appreciate the shop's commitment to maintaining the authentic recipe that has drawn generations of lassi lovers to it. The shop's various offerings are priced between Rs. 35 to Rs. 350.
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My weekend trip to Varanasi not only allowed me to explore the city's vibrant culture and spiritual significance, but also the opportunity to taste the legendary blue and green lassi varieties. Both establishments showcased the city's timeless traditions and the dedication of their owners to craft lassi experiences that have stood the test of time. From the Blue Lassi Shop's classic blend of saffron and cardamom to the Green Lassi Shop's innovative infusion of mint and herbs, these lassi varieties embodied the essence of the street food culture of Varanasi. As I said goodbye to Varanasi, I carried with me not only the memories of the captivating ghats and ancient temples but also the lingering taste of the famous lassis. These iconic lassi shops not only satisfied my palate but also provided a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Varanasi's cultural and gastronomical delights.
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