Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will revolutionize your dining experience with the most refreshing and tantalizingly simple side dish you'll ever taste! Our Mint and Cucumber Raita is not just a recipe; it's a magical cool-down potion that will instantly elevate any spicy Indian meal from ordinary to extraordinary. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal preparation time, you'll create a creamy, herbaceous delight that will have your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cucumber thoroughly and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a box grater or a fine grater, carefully grate the cucumber. Ensure you remove excess moisture by placing the grated cucumber on a clean kitchen towel and gently pressing to remove water.
- Rinse fresh mint leaves under cool water and pat them dry. Finely chop the mint leaves using a sharp knife, creating small, uniform pieces.
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the plain yogurt and whisk until smooth and creamy, eliminating any lumps.
- Add the grated cucumber to the yogurt and mix well, ensuring even distribution throughout the yogurt.
- Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves into the yogurt-cucumber mixture.
- Add cumin powder and salt to taste, stirring gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover the raita and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chill.
- Before serving, give the raita a quick stir and garnish with additional mint leaves if desired.
- Serve cold as a refreshing side dish alongside spicy Indian meals or as a cooling dip.
Tips
- Always use fresh, high-quality yogurt for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Remove excess moisture from grated cucumber to prevent a watery raita - this is crucial for maintaining the right consistency.
- Use fresh mint leaves for the most vibrant flavor; dried mint will significantly alter the taste profile.
- Adjust salt and cumin powder gradually, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a light sprinkle of chaat masala or paprika before serving.
- Chill the raita for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and develop.
- For a vegan alternative, substitute dairy yogurt with coconut or almond-based yogurt.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 40kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg