Cucumber Raita is a refreshing, creamy yogurt-based dish made with fresh cucumbers, herbs, and roasted spices. This simple yet flavorful accompaniment is the perfect cooling side dish for spicy meals like biryani and curries. Packed with probiotics, hydration, and a touch of aromatic cumin, cucumber raita brings balance to any Indian meal while being light and nutritious.
Health Benefits:
- Cucumber is rich in water content, aiding hydration and cooling the body. It also contains antioxidants that promote healthy skin.
- Yogurt is a natural probiotic, promoting good gut health and improving digestion.
- Mint and Coriander add a refreshing flavor while being rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Roasted Cumin enhances digestion and provides a mild earthy flavor to balance the creaminess of the yogurt.
Nutritional Highlights:
- Low in Calories
- Hydrating (Cucumber)
- Rich in Probiotics (Yogurt)
- High in Vitamin C
- Good Source of Calcium
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 60
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Calcium: 10% of daily value
Ingredients:
- Cucumber: 1 large or 2 small, peeled, grated, or finely chopped
- Thick Yogurt (Curd): 1 ½ cups, chilled
- Roasted Cumin Powder: ½ tsp
- Salt: To taste
- Black Salt (optional): ¼ tsp
- Green Chili: 1 small, finely chopped (optional)
- Coriander Leaves: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
- Mint Leaves: 1 tbsp, finely chopped (optional)
- Chaat Masala: ¼ tsp (optional)
- Red Chili Powder: A pinch for garnish
- Water: 2-3 tbsp, for adjusting consistency
- Cucumber Water (optional): You can retain some cucumber water if you want a more hydrating raita.
Recipe Instructions:
- Prepare the Cucumber:
Wash, peel, and grate the cucumber. If the cucumber releases too much water, lightly squeeze the grated cucumber and set it aside. Retain some of the water if you want a slightly thinner consistency.
2. Whisk the Yogurt:
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the chilled thick yogurt until it becomes smooth and creamy. If the yogurt is too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of water to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Mix Cucumber and Yogurt:
Add the grated cucumber to the whisked yogurt. Stir gently to combine. Add roasted cumin powder, salt, black salt (if using), chopped green chili (optional), coriander leaves, and mint leaves. Mix everything well until the cucumber and spices are evenly distributed throughout the yogurt.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Taste the raita and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or cumin powder to taste. If you prefer a tangy touch, add a pinch of chaat masala. You can also add more green chili for extra heat.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the cucumber raita to a serving bowl. Garnish with a pinch of red chili powder and a few extra chopped coriander or mint leaves for freshness. Serve chilled with biryani, pulao, or any Indian meal.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use Thick Yogurt: The key to a creamy, rich raita is using thick yogurt. You can use Greek yogurt or strained yogurt to make it extra creamy.
- Roast Your Cumin: Freshly roasted cumin powder adds a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the raita’s taste. Toast cumin seeds on a dry pan and grind them for the best flavor.
- Customize the Spice Level: You can easily control the spice level by adding or omitting green chili and adjusting the red chili powder garnish.
- Retain Cucumber Water: If you want a lighter, more hydrating raita, don’t squeeze out all the cucumber water. This will add a refreshing element to your dish.
