Vegetable Raita is a cooling Indian yogurt-based dish made with fresh curd and finely chopped vegetables. Light, refreshing, and spiced just right, it pairs wonderfully with biryanis, pulao, or any spicy Indian meal. It's simple, quick, and nutritious – perfect for everyday meals or festive spreads.
Ingredients:
- 500g (approx. 2 cups) thick curd (yogurt)
- 1 medium cucumber – peeled and finely chopped
- ½ medium tomato – finely chopped
- ½ medium onion – finely chopped
- ½ tsp black salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp roasted cumin powder
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander – finely chopped
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the curd until smooth and creamy.
- Add chopped cucumber, tomato, and onion to the curd.
- Sprinkle black salt, cumin powder, and black pepper.
- Mix everything well until combined.
- Add chopped coriander and mix again.
- Chill the raita before serving or serve immediately with jeera rice or pulao.
Nutritional Information (General):
- Calories: 85 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Calcium: 12%
- Vitamin C: 10%
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Add beetroot or grated carrots for a colorful twist.
- Mint leaves can be added for extra freshness.
- Use hung curd for thicker consistency.
- Add a tadka (tempering) of mustard seeds and curry leaves for South Indian flavor.
Common Mistakes & Fixes:
- Mistake: Watery raita
Fix: Use thick curd or strain regular curd for 30 mins before use. - Mistake: Raita turns sour quickly
Fix: Use fresh curd and serve immediately or refrigerate.
Chef’s Tips & Tricks:
- Always whip curd first to avoid lumps.
- Use roasted cumin powder for a deep, smoky flavor.
- Chill for 15 minutes before serving for best taste.
Brand Suggestions:
- Curd/Yogurt: Yeo Valley, Tesco Greek Style Yogurt, or Asda Natural Yogurt
- Cumin Powder: TRS or East End
- Black Salt: Natco Kala Namak
- Fresh Vegetables: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, or local Indian grocery stores
Equipment & Tools:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Chopping board & knife
- Measuring spoons
Pairing Suggestions:
- Serve with jeera rice, vegetable pulao, or stuffed paratha.
- Can also be enjoyed as a standalone cooling snack on hot days.
Allergen Information:
- Dairy: Contains milk – unsuitable for those with dairy allergies.
- Gluten-Free: Yes (if spices are gluten-free)
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based yogurt like coconut or soy yogurt.
Recipe Instructions Step by Step:
Step 1: Whisk the Curd
Take 500g thick curd in a mixing bowl and whisk it until smooth.
Step 2: Chop and Add Vegetables
Finely chop 1 cucumber, ½ tomato, and ½ onion. Add them to the curd.
Step 3: Season the Raita
Add ½ tsp black salt, ½ tsp roasted cumin powder, and ½ tsp black pepper.
Step 4: Garnish and Mix
Add chopped coriander. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes before serving with rice dishes.