A lassi (LAH-see), an Indian milkshake with yogurt, is an essential complement to a spicy dish. It is the best way I have found to counteract the spices. Brown Cow whole milk yogurt is a good commercial brand with a top layer of cream.
Ingredients:
3 cups plain or vanilla yogurt, with the top layer
of cream reserved (if present)
2/3 cup sugar or other sweetener
1/2 cup ice water
8-10 ice cubes, crushed
1-2 mangoes or 1 banana (optional)
Mix the yogurt and sugar with a whip until it is frothy. Blend all ingredients in a blender for a few minutes.
If using mangoes or banana, you do not need to froth the yogurt beforehand. Just throw everything in the blender at once. One mango will make it taste reminiscent of eggnog, while two will give it a strong mango flavor.
Pour into glasses and top with the cream.