Day 106 - Neer More (Savory Lassi, South Indian style)

It was a tradition in small villages throughout South India to always have a large earthen Pitcher handy of this deliciously refreshing yogurt drink, in case some thirsty traveler stopped to ask for some water to drink. In contrast to the thick creamy Lassi from Punjab, The Neer More was a very diluted version spiced delicately with crushed ginger, salt and curry leaves and a hint of lime. I'd much rather indulge in a large glass of this in summer than any sweet fruity summer beverage.

You need: (makes two 8 oz servings)
1/2 cup fat free yogurt
1 1/2 cups chilled water or plain seltzer
1 small piece of ginger
1 sprig curry leaves
coarse sea salt to taste
juice of 1/2 lime

Blend together the yogurt and water/seltzer so that the yogurt completely mixes into the water.
In a mortar combine the curry leaves, ginger and salt and pound into a paste. Add to the diluted yogurt along with the lime juice, stir well and allow to rest for about 1/2 hour in the refrigerator. Strain into glasses and serve. (I personally love chewing on the ginger shreds an skip the straining.)