Classic Cucumber Raita

Ingredients

• 2 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened)
• 1 cup cucumber (grated, preferably small cucumbers for having fewer seeds)
• 0.25 onion (finely chopped)
• 0.5 tsp ground cumin (to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)
• salt (to taste)
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, in a generous amount)
• 2 tbsp water (a splash to adjust consistency)

Steps

1. 1

   Grate the cucumber (preferably small varieties to avoid excess seeds) until you have one cup.

2. 2

   Finely chop a quarter of a white or red onion.

3. 3

   In a medium bowl, place the unsweetened plain yogurt.

4. 4

   Add the grated cucumber and chopped onion to the bowl with the yogurt.

5. 5

   Season the mixture with a bit of cumin, black pepper, and salt to taste.

6. 6

   Add a generous amount of freshly chopped cilantro.

7. 7

   Add a splash of water to thin the texture if the yogurt is very thick.

8. 8

   Mix all ingredients well until they are fully incorporated.

9. 9

   Serve as a side dish for rice, meat, or bean dishes.

Notes

Raita is similar to tzatziki but uses Indian spices like cumin. It is essential to use unsweetened yogurt to maintain the savory and refreshing flavor profile.

Nutrition per serving

• side dish
• vegetarian
• gluten-free
• indian
• healthy
• sauce
• yogurt