Onion Tomato Raita
Fresh chopped onion-tomato in seasoned yogurt — North Indian classic.
For 2 servings
1 step.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Whisk the yogurt in a bowl until smooth and creamy
- b.Fold in the finely chopped onion and tomato
- c.Add the cumin powder, cilantro, and salt
- d.Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated
TIPWhisk the yogurt thoroughly before adding vegetables to ensure a velvety texture.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use thick, full-fat yogurt (or Greek yogurt) for the creamiest texture. If your yogurt is thin, strain it through a cheesecloth for 30-60 minutes to remove excess whey.
- 2Deseeding the tomatoes is a crucial step to prevent the raita from becoming watery.
- 3For the best flavor and texture, add salt just before you are ready to serve. Adding it too early will draw water out of the vegetables and yogurt.
- 4Ensure your cumin powder is roasted (bhuna jeera). It provides a nutty, earthy aroma that is key to an authentic raita flavor.
- 5Chop the onions and tomatoes into a fine, uniform dice for a pleasant texture in every spoonful.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cucumber Raita
Replace the tomato with 1/2 cup of grated or finely chopped cucumber. Make sure to squeeze out all the excess water from the cucumber before adding it to the yogurt.
Minty RaitaMinty Raita
Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the coriander for an extra layer of refreshing flavor.
No Tempering VersionNo Tempering Version
For a quicker, simpler version, you can skip the tempering step entirely. The raita will still be delicious and refreshing.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the amount of green chillies or add a pinch of black pepper powder along with the other spices for more heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Promotes Gut Health
The yogurt base is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy digestive system, improve nutrient absorption, and maintain a balanced gut flora.
Cooling Effect on the Body
Yogurt and fresh vegetables like tomatoes have a natural cooling effect, making this raita an excellent side dish to balance the heat of spicy Indian meals and soothe the digestive system.
Rich in Calcium and Protein
Yogurt is a great source of calcium for strong bones and teeth, and provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair, satiety, and overall body function.
Source of Vitamins and Antioxidants
Fresh onions and tomatoes provide essential vitamins like Vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene, which help protect the body from cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy side dish. Yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics for gut health, protein, and calcium. The raw vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious, low-calorie accompaniment to any meal.