Cucumber Raita
A refreshing and simple Indian yogurt dip made with grated cucumber, fragrant roasted cumin, and fresh mint. This classic raita is the perfect cooling side dish for spicy curries and biryanis, ready in just 10 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Step 1
TIPDon't discard the cucumber water! You can drink it or add it to soups for extra nutrients. - 2
Step 2
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add the squeezed grated cucumber to the whisked yogurt.
- b.Add the chopped mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, and regular salt.
- c.If using, add a pinch of red chili powder.
- d.Mix everything together until well combined.
TIPFor the best flavor, roast whole cumin seeds in a dry pan until fragrant, then grind them into a powder. - 4
Step 4
- 5
Step 5
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use thick, full-fat or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. If your yogurt is thin, hang it in a muslin cloth for 30 minutes to drain excess whey.
- 2Squeezing the water out of the cucumber is the most important step to prevent a watery raita.
- 3For a different texture, you can finely chop the cucumber instead of grating it.
- 4Always use freshly roasted and ground cumin powder for the best aroma and flavor.
- 5Serve raita chilled for the most refreshing experience.
- 6You can add finely chopped green chilies or onions for extra crunch and spice.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace the dairy yogurt with a plant-based alternative like coconut, almond, or soy yogurt for a completely vegan version.
healthyHealthy
Use low-fat or fat-free yogurt to reduce the overall calorie and fat content. Ensure you skip any added sugar.
quickQuick
To save time, you can use a food processor to grate the cucumber quickly. Some stores also sell pre-grated cucumber.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red chili powder and any green chilies to make it mild and suitable for children.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Probiotics
The yogurt in raita is an excellent source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion.
Natural Coolant
Both cucumber and yogurt have natural cooling properties, making this raita the perfect dish to balance the heat of spicy foods and cool the body down.
Promotes Hydration
Cucumber consists of over 95% water, which helps in keeping your body hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Aids Digestion
Roasted cumin powder is well-known in traditional medicine for its digestive properties, helping to reduce gas and bloating.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Cucumber Raita is very healthy. Yogurt is a great source of probiotics for gut health, while cucumber is hydrating and provides fiber and vitamins. It's a light, low-calorie side dish.