Jamun Raita (Savory Yogurt Dip)
A refreshing, savory yogurt dip studded with the unique sweet-tart flavor of jamun (Indian black plums). This cooling side dish balances spicy meals beautifully, with a hint of roasted cumin and black salt adding depth. Perfect for hot summer lunches alongside biryani or paratha.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Prepare the jamun.
1.Wash 150g jamun thoroughly and pat dry.2.Cut each jamun in half, remove the seed, and roughly chop the flesh into small pieces.3.Set aside a few thin slices for garnish. - mix · ~2 min
Whisk the yogurt base.
1.In a mixing bowl, whisk 2 cups chilled yogurt until smooth and creamy.2.Add black salt, roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and sugar (if using).3.Whisk well to blend all the spices evenly into the yogurt.TIPBlack salt gives raita its signature savory tang — don't skip it. - mix · ~1 min
Fold in the jamun and mint.
1.Add the chopped jamun pieces to the spiced yogurt.2.Add the chopped mint leaves.3.Gently fold everything together until the jamun is well coated. - temper · ~2 min
Make the tempering.
1.Heat 1 tsp ghee in a small tadka pan over medium heat.2.Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle and crackle (30 seconds).3.Add the broken dried red chili and swirl for 10 seconds until fragrant.4.Immediately pour the hot tempering over the prepared raita.TIPPour the tempering just before serving for maximum aroma and a satisfying sizzle. - garnish
Garnish and serve chilled.
Top with the reserved jamun slices and a light sprinkle of roasted cumin powder. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use ripe but firm jamun so the pieces hold their shape in the yogurt without turning mushy.
- 2Whisk the yogurt until completely smooth to ensure the spices and jamun coat evenly.
- 3Don't skip the black salt — its sulfurous funk is essential for an authentic raita tang.
- 4Make the tempering just before serving so the ghee-cumin aroma hits fresh.
- 5Chill the raita for at least 15 minutes after mixing to let the flavors meld.
- 6Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours; the yogurt may thin slightly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace dairy yogurt with thick coconut or cashew yogurt and use coconut oil in place of ghee for the tempering. Ideal for those avoiding dairy without losing the creamy base.
extra tartExtra-tart
Add 1/2 tsp amchur (dry mango powder) along with the other spices to amplify the sour notes. Great if you love a sharper, more puckering raita.
herby twistHerby twist
Swap half the mint for finely chopped fresh cilantro (coriander leaves) for a greener, earthier flavor profile that pairs well with grilled meats.
low oilLow-oil
Skip the ghee tempering entirely and simply stir in 1/2 tsp raw cumin seeds and a pinch of chili flakes. A lighter version with a subtle crunch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Probiotic-Rich Yogurt
The live cultures in yogurt support gut health and digestion, making this raita a smart accompaniment to heavy, spicy meals.
Antioxidant-Packed Jamun
Jamun (Java plum) is rich in anthocyanins and vitamin C, which help neutralize free radicals and support immune function.
Digestive Aid from Cumin
Roasted cumin powder and tempering with cumin seeds stimulate digestive enzymes and can help reduce bloating after a rich meal.
Low in Added Sugar
With only a small optional pinch of sugar, this raita relies on the natural sweetness of jamun, keeping added sugars minimal.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before chopping to avoid thinning the yogurt. The texture will be slightly softer.
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