Yogurt-Cucumber Raita
A creamy and refreshing yogurt dip made with crisp grated cucumber, fresh mint, and a hint of roasted cumin. It's the perfect cooling accompaniment to spicy Indian dishes, ready in just 10 minutes.
For 4 servings
Prepare the cucumber.
Wash and grate the cucumber. Place the grated cucumber in a clean cloth or between your palms and squeeze out as much water as possible. This prevents the raita from becoming watery.
TIPDon't discard the cucumber water! You can drink it or add it to soups for extra nutrients.Whisk the yogurt.
In a medium bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt until it is smooth and creamy. This ensures there are no lumps in your raita.
Combine all ingredients.
- Add the squeezed grated cucumber to the whisked yogurt.
- Add the chopped mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything well until evenly combined.
Chill before serving.
For the best flavor, cover the raita and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
TIPChilling is optional if you're short on time, but it greatly enhances the taste.Serve chilled.
Serve the yogurt-cucumber raita as a cooling side dish with your main course, like chana masala, biryani, or pulao.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture and flavor.
- 2Squeezing the water out of the cucumber is the most important step for a thick, creamy raita.
- 3For a richer flavor, dry roast whole cumin seeds and grind them fresh.
- 4You can add a pinch of red chili powder for a little heat if you like.
- 5Store leftover raita in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plain, unsweetened plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt.
quickQuick
Skip the chilling step if you are in a hurry. The raita will still be delicious served immediately.
healthyHealthy
Use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt to reduce the overall calorie and fat content.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the black pepper and ensure the cumin powder is mild. You can also add a tiny pinch of sugar to balance the tanginess for kids.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Probiotics
Yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion.
Good Source of Protein
Greek yogurt is packed with protein, which is essential for muscle repair, satiety, and maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Hydrating Properties
Cucumber has a high water content, which helps in keeping the body hydrated and cool, especially during warmer weather.
Cooling for the Body
In traditional Indian cuisine, raita is served to balance the heat from spicy dishes, providing a cooling and soothing effect on the digestive system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. Greek yogurt provides a good amount of protein and probiotics for gut health. Cucumber is hydrating and provides some vitamins. It's a light, low-carb, and refreshing side dish.