Indian Cucumber Raita

Cool, creamy, and bursting with refreshing flavors, Indian Cucumber Raita is the perfect companion to spice-laden dishes. Made with silky smooth plain yogurt, freshly grated cucumber, and a sprinkle of aromatic toasted cumin seeds, this traditional Indian condiment balances heat with its cooling properties. A hint of fresh cilantro and optional green chili adds layers of vibrant flavor, while a touch of salt and a dash of black pepper bring everything together. Ready in just 10 minutes, this quick and easy raita is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with biryani, curries, or naan. Serve it chilled to elevate your next Indian feast with its irresistible blend of textures and tastes.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:10 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Plain yogurt
• 1 large Cucumber
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Sugar (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Chopped cilantro (fresh coriander leaves)
• 1 small Green chili (optional)
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground)
• 2 tablespoons Water (optional, to thin yogurt)

Directions

Step 1

Wash and peel the cucumber. Grate it using a box grater or shred finely as desired.

Step 2

Place the grated cucumber in a strainer or clean kitchen towel. Gently press to remove excess water. Set aside.

Step 3

In a mixing bowl, whisk the plain yogurt until it is smooth and creamy. If the yogurt is very thick, add 2 tablespoons of water to achieve a desired consistency.

Step 4

Add the grated cucumber to the whisked yogurt and mix well.

Step 5

Toast the cumin seeds in a dry pan over low heat for 1-2 minutes until aromatic. Once cool, crush them lightly with a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.

Step 6

Add the toasted cumin seeds, salt, sugar (if using), chopped cilantro, and black pepper to the raita. Stir to combine.

Step 7

If you like a bit of spice, finely chop the green chili and mix it into the raita. Adjust chili amount based on spice preference.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.

Step 9

Chill the raita in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 10

Serve the cucumber raita cold as a side dish with biryani, curry, paratha, or any Indian meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	942.3 grams (942.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	394

Total Fat 8.80g	11%
Saturated Fat 5.10g	26%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.30g
Cholesterol 29mg	10%
Sodium 1539mg	67%
Total Carbohydrate 53.70g	20%
Dietary Fiber 2.80g	10%
Total Sugars 43.90g
Protein 29.10g	58%

Vitamin D 235IU	1176%
Calcium 997mg	77%
Iron 4mg	21%
Potassium 1870mg	40%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 19.3%

Protein: 28.4%

Carbs: 52.3%