Cucumber Raita

Name: Cucumber Raita
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 6 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 medium-sized Cucumber (grated); 1 cup thick plain Yogurt (curd); 1 Green Chilli (deseeded & chopped); 1 tsp Sugar; 0.25 cup milk or water (optional); 1 tbsp Oil; 0.5 tsp Black Mustard Seeds; 1 in dry Red Chilli (broken pieces); 1 sprig of fresh Curry Leaves; 0.5 tsp Salt (to taste); 0.5 tsp roasted Cumin powder; 0.25 tsp Chaat masala; Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

by Leena Kohli (@leenakohli)

Prep Time

5min

Cook Time

1min

Total Time

6min

IndianSideVegetarianGluten-Free

Cucumber Raita is a refreshing tasty side dish that complements Indian dishes like biryani, pulao and other main courses. It's made by mixing cool yogurt with juicy cucumbers, fragrant curry leaves, and mustard seeds. This dish not only cools down spicy flavours but also adds a fresh and delicious touch to your meal. It's a must-try addition to your Indian dishes for a delightful and flavorful experience.

Ingredients

4 Servings

1
medium-sized Cucumber (grated)
1cup
thick plain Yogurt (curd)
1
Green Chilli (deseeded & chopped)
1tsp
Sugar
1/4cup
milk or water (optional)

For Tempering

1tbsp
Oil
1/2tsp
Black Mustard Seeds
1in
dry Red Chilli (broken pieces)
1sprig
of fresh Curry Leaves
1/2tsp
Salt (to taste)
1/2tsp
roasted Cumin powder
1/4tsp
Chaat masala
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Method

Grate the cucumber with the peel intact, allowing the excess water to remain. (You can drain or incorporate the excess water into the yogurt to elevate the flavour and texture.) Set aside the grated cucumber.
In a bowl, whisk the yogurt until it becomes smooth. Combine it with the grated cucumber, chopped green chilli, and sugar. (If needed, incorporate milk or water to achieve the desired smooth consistency.)

For Tempering

Heat oil in a small pan over medium heat.
Add black mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, turn off the heat and add dry red chilli and curry leaves. Allow it to cool, before pouring it over the cucumber-yogurt blend.

For Seasoning

Season with salt, cumin powder, and chaat masala. Mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Chill the raita in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to blend.
Serve the cucumber raita as a refreshing side dish with biryani, pulao or any main course. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
Before grating the cucumber, check for bitterness. If it tastes bitter, refrain from using it.

Recipe by

Leena Kohli

(@leenakohli)

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