Savory Amla Raita
A refreshing Indian yogurt dip featuring the unique tartness of amla (Indian gooseberry), balanced with cooling mint and earthy cumin. Perfect as a palate cleanser alongside spicy meals.
For 4 servings
Rinse the fresh amla thoroughly under cold water. Using a fine grater, carefully grate the amla, discarding the hard central seed. Set the grated amla aside.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the plain Greek yogurt. Whisk vigorously with a fork or a small whisk until the yogurt is completely smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
To the whisked yogurt, add the grated amla, finely chopped fresh mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, and salt. If desired, also add the finely chopped green chili and grated ginger for an extra kick and freshness.
Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the yogurt mixture.
Check the consistency of the raita. If it appears too thick for your preference, gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of cold water or milk, one tablespoon at a time, stirring well after each addition, until your desired smooth and pourable consistency is achieved.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the amla raita for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the raita is served refreshingly cold.
Before serving, give the raita a quick stir. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig or a light sprinkle of additional roasted cumin powder for presentation.
Serve chilled as a cooling side dish alongside rich Indian curries, biryanis, pulao, grilled meats, or as a refreshing dip with vegetable sticks.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use fresh, firm amla for the best flavor and texture. Avoid soft or discolored ones, as they may be overripe or spoiled.
- 2For a more intense and aromatic cumin flavor, roast whole cumin seeds in a dry pan until fragrant, then grind them into a powder just before adding to the raita.
- 3Adjust the amount of amla to your personal preference; some prefer a tangier raita, while others might opt for a milder flavor. Taste and adjust as you go.
- 4To achieve an exceptionally smooth raita, you can blend a small portion of the grated amla with a tablespoon of yogurt in a mini blender before incorporating it into the main batch.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a finely chopped green chili or a pinch of red chili powder along with the other spices.
Sweet & Savory BalanceSweet & Savory Balance
A tiny pinch of sugar, a drizzle of honey, or a few drops of maple syrup can help balance the tartness of amla for a slightly sweeter profile.
Vegetable BoostVegetable Boost
Incorporate other finely grated vegetables like cucumber, carrots, or even a small amount of finely chopped onion for added texture and nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Amla is an exceptional source of Vitamin C, which is crucial for boosting immunity, promoting skin health, and acting as a powerful antioxidant to combat free radicals.
Aids Digestion
The fiber content in amla, combined with the probiotics found in Greek yogurt, promotes a healthy gut microbiome, aids digestion, and can alleviate digestive discomfort.
Cooling & Detoxifying
Yogurt and mint provide a natural cooling effect, making this raita ideal for balancing spicy meals, while amla is traditionally known for its detoxifying properties, supporting overall bodily cleanse.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh amla offers the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen grated amla. Ensure it's thawed completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the yogurt to prevent the raita from becoming watery.
