Description
Cucumber Raita is a cooling and refreshing Indian side dish made with creamy yogurt, crisp cucumber, fresh cilantro and mint, seasoned with cumin, salt, black pepper, and a hint of lemon juice. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and perfectly complements spicy curries, grilled meats, rice dishes, and flatbreads.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yogurt (whole-milk or Greek yogurt)
- 1 medium cucumber
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumber: Peel the cucumber if desired and grate it using the large holes of a box grater. Then gently squeeze out the excess liquid from the grated cucumber to prevent the raita from becoming too watery.
- Mix Yogurt: Add the plain yogurt to a bowl and whisk until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the grated cucumber, freshly chopped cilantro, mint, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice into the yogurt. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to suit your preference.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the raita for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and serve chilled.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with a few fresh mint or cilantro leaves for an added fresh touch. Serve as a side dish, dip, or refreshing snack.
Notes
- Peeling the cucumber is optional; leave the skin on if thin and tender.
- Removing excess water from cucumber keeps the raita creamy.
- Add cayenne or chopped green chili for heat if desired.
- Fine diced cucumber or grated carrot/red onion can add texture variations.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving.
- Raita is served cold and does not require reheating.
- Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Indian
