Cucumber-Mint Raita (Yogurt Condiment)

Small and simple things are very important in life. Not only do they compliment the bigger things but also enhance their impressions. Even if we are satisfied with the bigger wins we often miss the smaller ones. The exact same logic applies to food. Some big and bold dishes often feel incomplete without the pairing of proper condiments, like pancakes are incomplete without syrup and tacos without salsa. One such indispensable thing with many a Indian dishes is Raita, yogurt based condiment/ dip. It is very popular as a side with Biryani, Pulao, Kabab and Paratha to name a few. There can be a lot of variations to it depending on individual preferences and seasonal availability of ingredients. Raita does not only tastes good and works as a palate cleanser but is also known to help with digestion. I make it too often as it is served along two of our favorite dishes, Biryani and Aalu Paratha (stuffed Indian flatbread). You can find my recipe for Aalu Paratha with video here.

I am sharing one of the simplest ways to make it. And you can even make it look pretty and professional at the same time by following the procedure mentioned below. 



Cucumber and Mint Raita

INGREDIENTS

Yogurt : 1/2 cup
Cucumber : 1 (medium)
Mint : 8 to 10 leaves
Ground black pepper : 1/2 tsp
Lime juice : 1 tsp
Sugar : 1/2 tsp
Salt to taste

PROCEDURE

Shave the cucumber with a peeler to from ribbons as shown in the picture.


Finely chop the mint leaves.


Take the yogurt in a bowl and beat it till smooth.


Now add in ground black pepper, lime juice, mint, sugar and salt. Mix everything well.


Finally, add the cucumber ribbons and fold them gently into the dip.



The most refreshing Cucumber - Mint Raita is ready to be served with your favorite food.



Photographs by Swakshar Ghosh.

Comments

Popular Posts