Indian Cucumber Raita
Cool, creamy, and bursting with refreshing flavors, Indian Cucumber Raita is the perfect companion to spice-laden dishes. Made with silky smooth plain yogurt, freshly grated cucumber, and a sprinkle of aromatic toasted cumin seeds, this traditional Indian condiment balances heat with its cooling properties. A hint of fresh cilantro and optional green chili adds layers of vibrant flavor, while a touch of salt and a dash of black pepper bring everything together. Ready in just 10 minutes, this quick and easy raita is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with biryani, curries, or naan. Serve it chilled to elevate your next Indian feast with its irresistible blend of textures and tastes.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Plain yogurt
- 1 large Cucumber
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Sugar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Chopped cilantro (fresh coriander leaves)
- 1 small Green chili (optional)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons Water (optional, to thin yogurt)
Instructions
Wash and peel the cucumber. Grate it using a box grater or shred finely as desired.
Place the grated cucumber in a strainer or clean kitchen towel. Gently press to remove excess water. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl, whisk the plain yogurt until it is smooth and creamy. If the yogurt is very thick, add 2 tablespoons of water to achieve a desired consistency.
Add the grated cucumber to the whisked yogurt and mix well.
Toast the cumin seeds in a dry pan over low heat for 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Once cool, crush them lightly with a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.
Add the toasted cumin seeds, salt, sugar (if using), chopped cilantro, and black pepper to the raita. Stir to combine.
If you like a bit of spice, finely chop the green chili and mix it into the raita. Adjust chili amount based on spice preference.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
Chill the raita in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve the cucumber raita cold as a side dish with biryani, curry, paratha, or any Indian meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
394 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 8.8 g | 11% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 29 mg | 10% | |
| Sodium | 1539 mg | 67% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 53.7 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 43.9 g | ||
| Protein | 29.1 g | 58% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.9 mcg | 29% | |
| Calcium | 997 mg | 77% | |
| Iron | 3.7 mg | 21% | |
| Potassium | 1870 mg | 40% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
