Imagine a creamy, refreshing side dish that instantly cools down your spiciest Indian meal while tantalizing your taste buds with a burst of fresh flavors. The Pahadi Raita is not just a simple cucumber yogurt mix – it's a culinary journey through the mountain regions of India, where every spoonful tells a story of tradition, freshness, and pure deliciousness. Whether you're a spice lover looking for the perfect cooling companion or a food enthusiast eager to explore authentic Indian cuisine, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 cucumber (grated)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and dry the cucumber thoroughly. Using a grater, grate the cucumber finely, ensuring you capture all the fresh vegetable shreds.
- Take a clean mixing bowl and add the fresh yogurt. Whisk the yogurt until it becomes smooth and creamy, removing any lumps.
- Gently squeeze out excess water from the grated cucumber using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to prevent the raita from becoming watery.
- Add the drained grated cucumber into the whisked yogurt and mix well to create a uniform consistency.
- Sprinkle cumin powder and salt over the mixture, stirring gently to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- In a small pan, dry roast the mustard seeds until they start to pop and release their aromatic oils. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
- Fold the roasted mustard seeds into the raita, ensuring they are well incorporated.
- Finely chop fresh mint leaves and sprinkle them on top of the raita for added freshness and garnish.
- Chill the raita in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and provide a cool temperature.
- Serve cold as a refreshing side dish with Indian main courses or as a cooling accompaniment to spicy meals.
Tips
- Choose fresh, crisp cucumber for the best texture and flavor
- Always squeeze out excess water from grated cucumber to prevent a watery raita
- Use fresh, full-fat yogurt for a creamier consistency
- Roast mustard seeds carefully – they should pop but not burn
- Chill the raita before serving to enhance flavor melding
- Use fresh mint leaves for maximum aromatic impact
- Adjust salt and spices to your personal taste preference
- For extra texture, you can leave some cucumber pieces slightly larger
- Serve immediately after preparing for the freshest taste
- Pair with spicy curries, biryanis, or as a standalone summer refreshment
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
