Ghol
Experience the vibrant flavors of Bangladesh with Ghol, a refreshing and savory yogurt drink. This traditional beverage perfectly balances the creamy tang of yogurt with aromatic mint, a hint of spicy green chili, and earthy cumin, making it an ideal cooler for warm days or a delightful digestive aid.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 5 min
- Serves
- 2
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Per serving
- 115 kcal
Allergen information: may contain milk. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
- 1.5 cupplain yogurt, chilled
- 0.5 cupwater, chilled
- 10 pcsfresh mint leaf
- 0.5 pcsgreen chili, deseeded and roughly chopped(optional)
- 0.5 tspginger, grated
- 0.25 tspblack salt
- 0.25 tsproasted cumin powder
- 4 pcsice cube
Equipment
High-speed blender · Measuring cups · Measuring spoons · 2× Serving glasses · Chef's knife (optional) · Cutting board (optional)
The method
Step by step
- 1
Gather all ingredients: plain yogurt, chilled water, fresh mint leaves, green chili, grated ginger, black salt, roasted cumin powder, and ice cubes.
Cook’s note: Using chilled water helps maintain the cold temperature of the drink, which is essential for a refreshing Ghol.
- 2
Carefully wash and pat dry the fresh mint leaves, then remove them from their stems.
Cook’s note: Fresh mint is key for the vibrant flavor; avoid dried mint for this recipe.
- 3
If using, finely chop the green chili, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
Cook’s note: The amount of green chili can be adjusted to your spice preference; a small piece adds a subtle kick.
- 4
Combine the plain yogurt, chilled water, fresh mint leaves, chopped green chili, grated ginger, black salt, and roasted cumin powder into a high-speed blender.
Cook’s note: Ensure the ginger is finely grated or minced to prevent fibrous bits in the final drink.
- 5
Secure the blender lid and blend the mixture on high speed until it is completely smooth and a light froth forms on top.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Blend for at least 60-90 seconds to fully incorporate all ingredients and achieve a creamy, frothy texture.
- 6
Taste the Ghol and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more black salt for tanginess or roasted cumin powder for depth of flavor.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Black salt (kala namak) provides a unique pungent, sulfuric flavor; if unavailable, use regular salt but note the flavor will be different.
- 7
Pour the freshly blended Ghol into two serving glasses.
- 8
Add 2 ice cubes to each glass just before serving to keep the drink perfectly chilled.
Cook’s note: Adding ice just before serving prevents the Ghol from becoming watered down too quickly.
Per serving
Nutrition
- Calories
- 114.5kcal
- Protein
- 6.5g
- Carbs
- 9g
- Fat
- 6.1g
- Fibre
- 0.1g
- Sugar
- 8.7g
Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.
Keep it good
Ghol is a fantastic accompaniment to spicy meals, as its cooling properties help balance the heat. For a richer version, you can use full-fat yogurt. Feel free to experiment with a tiny pinch of black pepper or a squeeze of lime juice for an extra layer of flavor. It's also a wonderful way to use up extra mint from your garden!
Store any leftover Ghol in an airtight container or covered pitcher in the refrigerator.
Ghol is best enjoyed fresh and chilled. Do not reheat. If it separates slightly, stir well before serving.