The Story of Princess Savitri, A Myth From India's Epic Mahabharata; Fireside Folklore with Hades, Ep 11

Fireside Folklore with Hades

Friends!
Let me take you on an enchanting auditory adventure to the magical land of India. This week, we wandered into a forest of fate, forged our way through thickets of time, and emerged victorious with an epic tale of everlasting love.
I, your trusted psychopomp, conspired to conjure a very special guest - none other than the eminent Lord Yama himself! I scoured the realms to retrieve this reticent ruler of the dead. And wow - even Lord Yama was not immune to the resolute devotion displayed by our courageous Princess Savitri! Talk about impressing the imperturbable.
Through tests of trial and tribulation, Savitri persisted in pursuit of her beloved Prince Satyavan's spirit. Her quick thinking and silver tongue softened even Lord Yama's stony stare, winning her hubby's life with an artfully cunning request. Truly, love laughed last this day!
So come revel in the glory of everlasting devotion with my dauntless Uncle Hades, the delightful Aunt Persephone, and my adorkable dad.
Till we meet again by the fireside, adieu! May your dreams swim in yogurt and mango, sweet as the bonds between lovers.
Here is that recipe for mango lassi.
Mango Lassi is a traditional South Asian drink that has gained immense popularity worldwide. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this drink is a blend of ripe mangoes, yogurt, and sometimes milk. The word 'Lassi' refers to any yogurt-based drink in Indian cuisine. Historically, Lassis were savored to cool down during the hot seasons and were often flavored with spices like cardamom and saffron.

The Mango Lassi, with its sweet and tangy flavor, is particularly beloved. Mangoes, known as the 'king of fruits' in India, have been cultivated in South Asia for thousands of years. This drink combines the nutritional benefits of mangoes—rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants—with the probiotic qualities of yogurt, making it not only delicious but also healthy.

In Indian culture, Mango Lassi is more than just a refreshing beverage; it's a part of summer festivities and family gatherings. It's also popular in Indian restaurants worldwide, serving as a delightful finish to spicy meals.

Now, let's dive into how to make this delightful beverage:

Here is what you will need.

- 1½ cups of chopped sweet ripe mangoes (or 1 cup of canned mango pulp)

- 1 cup of plain yogurt

- ½ cup of milk, water, or 4 ice cubes

- 2 to 3 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)

- ¼ teaspoon of cardamom powder (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

- 1 teaspoon of chopped nuts

- A pinch of saffron strands

- 4 tablespoons of whipped cream

Here's how to make this delightful drink.

1. If using fresh mangoes, rinse, chill, peel, and cube them. (Skip this step if using canned mango pulp.)

2. Add the mangoes, yogurt, milk (or water or ice), cardamom powder, and sugar to a blender jar.

3. Blend until the mango lassi is super smooth. It should be thick but pourable.

4. Taste test and adjust the sweetness or consistency by adding more sugar, milk, ice, or mangoes.

5. Pour the mango lassi into serving glasses. For a colder lassi, refrigerate for an hour before serving.

6. Garnish with sliced pistachios or saffron strands.

If you’d like to share pictures of your mango lassi or if you have any questions, please E-mail me at [e-mail].

Enjoy!