Cucumber Raita is one of the coolest forms in the raita category. Raita is made from yogurt combined with some spices and herbs. Yogurt is a cooling agent, and to give a double dose of refreshing coolness, it’s best to combine it with cucumber. This way, you can make yourself super refreshed.Â
This simple and simple cucumber raita recipe is a must-try and will definitely leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.
Cucumber Raita Ingredients:
- Cucumber Chopped 1 Cup
- Chopped Garlic Cloves 3-4
- Ground Black Pepper 1/2 tsp
- Salt 1/3 tsp or to taste
- Crushed Cumin 1/4 tsp
- Yogurt 1 1/2 Cup
How To Make Cucumber Raita?
Cucumber raita can be made quickly and without any obstacles. Below is the most simple and authentic recipe for cucumber raita.
Not only to eat, but to eat healthy as well. Here, we are using cucumber with its peel to maximize its nutrients. The skin also adds some crunchiness to the raita.
Directions:
- To start, cleanse the cucumber under flowing water. Use salt to gently scrub the cucumber’s skin, then rinse it thoroughly once more to eliminate any traces of dirt or bacteria.
- Cut the cucumber into tiny cubes, and likewise, chop the garlic cloves into smaller pieces, keeping them separate for now.
- In a bowl, gently beat the yogurt using a whisk until it becomes slightly frothy.
- Include the diced cucumber, chopped garlic, salt, ground black pepper, and crushed cumin into the bowl containing the yogurt.
- Combine all the ingredients in the bowl until they are well blended, ensuring that everything is evenly incorporated, and you’re finished! The cucumber raita is now ready to be served on a table.
Add-ins:
The authentic cucumber raita recipe has a savory, salty, and mildly sweet flavor. To give cucumber raita traditional touch, you can add some chopped green chili pepper, diced mint leaves, and Chat masala which gives it a zesty and perky flavor.
Benefits Of Cucumber Raita
Cucumber and yogurt are key ingredients in cucumber raita and both of them are rich in vitamins and minerals and contain more water content. This healthy combination helps;
- To keep hydrated.
- To boost the immune system.
- Helps in digestion.
- Helps to prevent constipation due to water and fiber.
- Makes skin look healthy
- Keep blood pressure in check.
- Helps in weight loss.
Cucumber raita can be eaten as it is or can be served with Biryani, Pulao, Qorma, Kebab, and other main courses.
Simple Cucumber Raita Recipe - Raita With Cucumber Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup Chopped Cucumber
- 1 1/2 cup Yogurt
- 3-4 Chopped Garlic Cloves
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1/3 tsp Salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp Crushed Cumin (Zeera)
Instructions
- Begin by washing the cucumber in running water. Scrub the skin of the cucumber with salt and wash it again thoroughly to remove any dirt or germs.
- Chop the cucumber into small cubes, and also chop some garlic cloves separately, setting them aside.
- In a bowl, lightly whisk the yogurt.
- Add the chopped cucumber, garlic, salt, ground black pepper, and crushed cumin to the bowl of yogurt.
- Mix all of the ingredients together thoroughly, and you're finished! The cucumber raita is now ready to be served on a table.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?
Greek yogurt is keto friendly and it can be substituted with regular yogurt. The consistency of greek yogurt is thicker than regular yogurt. As the consistency of raita is not thick so to make raita with greek yogurt add little amount of water or milk in it.
How long can I store cucumber raita in the refrigerator?
Cucumber raita can be stored in refrigerator for 3-4 days but consuming it freshly is good rather than storing it.
Can I use other herbs or spices to enhance the flavor?
Key ingredients of cucumber raita is cucumber and yogurt. Giving it a variation you can add herbs or spices of your choice to enhance the flavor
Is it necessary to peel the cucumber before chopping?
Peeling cucumber can lower the amount of fiber and other vitamins and minerals. According to us best way is to use cucumber is with its skin, it boost the nutrient content.
Can I substitute garlic with garlic powder?
Using fresh garlic is more good and flavourful but it can be substituted woth garlic powder as well.
What dishes pair well with cucumber raita?
Cucumber raita is an Indian side dish and it can be eaten with curries, vegetable dishes, Biryani, pulao, and naan as well.
Can I make cucumber raita ahead of time for a party or gathering?
Cucumbers raita can be made ahead of time.
How is cucumber raita different from tzatziki?
Cucumber raita is made up of regular yogurt while tzatziki is made up of greek yogurt.
Is cucumber raita a suitable accompaniment for spicy dishes?
Cucumber raita goes well with spicy dishes.
Can I make cucumber raita without garlic?
Garlic gives buttery and tang flavour in raita. Making raita without garlic is totally your choice.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
In place of fresh herbs, dried herbs can serve as an excellent alternative.
Can I add fruits like pineapple or grapes to cucumber raita?
The decision to include fruits in cucumber raita is entirely at your discretion.
Can I adjust the consistency of cucumber raita?
Consistency of raita is mostly thin but many people like it in thicker form. If you want to thicker the raita you can add cream in it and if you want in thin form you can add water or milk in it.