Lassi

In India, they serve a traditional drink called "lassi" to beat the heat.

It is a combination of yoghurt, honey and sometimes salt.

I first tasted it a few years ago at an Indian restaurant here on my east coast. Apparently the salt can be optional, perhaps in deference to Western tastes, but when I try something, I want it to be authentic, and so I had it that way.

Different. Definitely not Yoplait. But good.

Lizzie Collingham begins Her magnificent literary work on Indian cuisine, "Curry, a Tale of Cooks and Conquerors," with a brief ode to lassi:

"Its thick, velvety sweetness was seductive."

She provides a recipe in Her book, but you know as well as I do that not even the best book and the most earnest "cook" can quite replicate a native's culinary touch.

I know of an Indian restaurant or two near where I work. I think that during the remainder of this sticky, icky east coast summer, I shall enjoy a few lassis. Lassis, not Lassies!