Raita, a traditional Indian yogurt dip, is savory and slightly sour, combining yogurt, fresh veggies, herbs, fruits, and spices. It's an easy-to-make side that perfectly complements dishes like biryani, pulaos, naan, roti, kebabs, and curries, and can be prepared in under 10 minutes.
Start by chopping 2 medium onions into small pieces and toss them into a bowl.
Grate half a cucumber using the largest holes on your vegetable grater for the perfect texture, and add it to your onion mix.
Next, chop a tomato, a green chili, and a small bunch of coriander leaves and add them to the bowl.
Pour 2 cups of thick plain whole milk yogurt over the vegetable medley in the bowl, seasoning it with a pinch of salt.
Give everything a thorough mix, adjusting with extra yogurt and salt to taste.
Finish by sprinkling cumin powder and paprika over the top for garnish. Your Raita is now ready to be savored!
To Serve
Enjoy this Raita as a cooling side with spicy dishes, biryani, or as a dip with your favorite snacks for a delightful taste experience.
Notes
Essential Tips for Perfect Raita:
Yogurt Choice: Opt for thick plain whole milk yogurt for the best taste and texture. Avoid sour yogurt as it can spoil the dip's flavor.
Fresh Ingredients: Select fresh, high-quality vegetables like onions and cucumbers, along with herbs. These are essential for a rich flavor.
Washing Herbs and Veggies: Herbs like coriander and mint often contain mud and debris. Ensure they are thoroughly washed until clean.
Spice Quantities: Spices like cumin powder and paprika, while optional for garnishing, enhance the yogurt's taste. Start with a small amount, such as ¼ tsp, which is sufficient for 4 to 5 servings.
Chopping Techniques: Vegetables can be thinly sliced or chopped into small chunks. For convenience, cucumbers can be grated using the largest shredding holes, similar to grating cheese. Alternatively, chop them with a kitchen knife.
Preparation Time: Preparing the Raita ahead of time allows the flavors of onion, cucumber, and herbs to meld into the yogurt. It's recommended to make and refrigerate it 1 to 2 hours before serving for the best taste.
Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly version, use your preferred non-dairy yogurt.