Refreshing Cucumber and Yogurt Raita
This Refreshing Cucumber and Yogurt Raita is a cool and tangy side dish that is a staple in Indian cuisine. Perfectly pairing with spicy curries and flavorful biryanis, this raita balances heat with its creamy texture and refreshing cucumber flavor. Lightly sweetened with honey and garnished with coriander and a hint of cumin, this dish not only adds flavor but also provides a refreshing contrast. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or family dinners, this raita is a delightful addition to your meal.
6
Servings
30
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Plain Yogurt (European or Greek)
2 cups (none)
Honey
2 tablespoons (can be warmed slightly for easier mixing)
Cucumber
1/2 cup (peeled, grated, and seeded; drained well)
Fresh Coriander (Cilantro leaves)
1/4 cup (chopped)
Ground Cumin
1/4 teaspoon (for garnish (optional))
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt and honey. If the honey is too viscous, consider warming it slightly to allow for smoother blending.
2
Add the grated and well-drained cucumber to the yogurt mixture. It's important to ensure that the cucumber is properly drained to prevent the raita from becoming too watery.
3
Fold in the chopped fresh coriander, mixing gently until all the ingredients are well combined.
4
Transfer the raita into a serving bowl and sprinkle with ground cumin, adding a touch of flavor and an appealing visual element.
5
Chill the raita in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6
Serve the Refreshing Cucumber and Yogurt Raita alongside your favorite Indian dishes or as a dipping sauce for naan bread.
Nutrition Information
0.67g
Fat
5g
Carbs
1.67g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Refreshing Cucumber and Yogurt Raita?
It is a cool and tangy Indian side dish made with yogurt, grated cucumber, and spices, used to balance heat in a meal.
What main dishes pair well with this raita?
This raita perfectly pairs with spicy curries, flavorful biryanis, and can also be used as a dipping sauce for naan bread.
How many calories are in one serving of this raita?
There are approximately 30 calories in a single serving.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 6 servings.
What type of yogurt should I use?
You can use either European or Greek plain yogurt for this recipe.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy, low-calorie side dish that is also low in fat.
How do I prevent the raita from becoming too watery?
It is important to properly drain the grated and seeded cucumber before adding it to the yogurt mixture.
Why is honey added to this cucumber raita?
Honey is used to lightly sweeten the dish and provide a refreshing contrast to the tangy yogurt and spicy main courses.
What if my honey is too thick to mix?
If the honey is too viscous, you can warm it slightly to allow for smoother blending with the yogurt.
What is the preparation for the cucumber?
The cucumber should be peeled, grated, seeded, and well-drained.
Do I need to chill the raita before serving?
Yes, it should be chilled in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
What garnish is used for this dish?
Ground cumin is sprinkled on top as a garnish to add flavor and visual appeal.
Is this recipe vegan?
No, this recipe uses dairy yogurt and honey, making it vegetarian but not vegan.
Can I use cilantro instead of coriander?
Yes, fresh coriander is the same as cilantro leaves, which should be chopped and folded into the mix.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 1.67 grams of protein.
What is the fat content of this raita?
This raita is very low in fat, containing only 0.67 grams per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe with only 5 ingredients and simple mixing steps.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
The flavor is cool, tangy, and refreshing with a hint of sweetness and earthy cumin.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 5 ingredients: yogurt, honey, cucumber, fresh coriander, and ground cumin.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
What category of food does this belong to?
This recipe is categorized as a Sauce.
Can I use this as a dip for bread?
Yes, it is excellent as a dipping sauce for naan bread.
How much cumin should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin, primarily used for garnish.
Why is seeding the cucumber necessary?
Seeding the cucumber helps reduce the amount of liquid released into the yogurt, maintaining a better consistency.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The recipe contains natural sugars from the honey and yogurt, though specific sugar grams are not listed.
What is the texture of the raita?
It has a creamy texture from the yogurt combined with the slight crunch of grated cucumber.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is a refreshing and cooling dish intended to balance out spicy foods.
Can I add other vegetables to this raita?
While this recipe focuses on cucumber, raitas can often be customized with other ingredients like carrots or onions.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover raita should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and is best consumed within 1-2 days.