Garlic Methi Raita (Lehsun Methi Raita) Recipe
A refreshing, savory yogurt-based side dish, Garlic Methi Raita is an ideal accompaniment to your meals, especially for spicy curries or flatbreads. With the earthy bitterness of fenugreek leaves (methi) balanced by the creaminess of yogurt and the boldness of garlic, this raita offers a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. It’s a perfect way to bring both comfort and health benefits to your dining table, as fenugreek is known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Methi Leaves (Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 cup, fresh and finely chopped |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1 cup, whisked |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Chaat Masala Powder | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Black Salt (Kala Namak) | To taste |
| Water | As required |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | 1/4 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Potassium | 120 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Calcium | 80 mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating the sunflower oil in a pan over medium flame. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds. Allow them to sizzle and release their aromatic flavors. This will form the base of your raita’s flavor profile.
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Sauté the Garlic: Add the finely chopped garlic to the pan and sauté it until golden brown. Make sure to cook the garlic well until its raw aroma disappears and it turns a lovely golden hue.
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Cook the Methi: Now, add the chopped methi (fenugreek) leaves to the pan. Stir the mixture on high flame, allowing the methi to wilt and soften. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure the leaves cook evenly.
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Seasoning: Once the methi leaves have softened and reduced, add salt to taste. Continue to cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until the methi is well-cooked. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
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Combine with Yogurt: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add the cumin powder, chaat masala, black salt, and the cooled methi-garlic mixture. Stir gently to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
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Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner consistency for the raita, gradually add water to the mixture until you reach your desired thickness. The raita should be creamy yet pourable, so adjust accordingly.
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Garnish and Serve: For a finishing touch, sprinkle a pinch of Kashmiri red chilli powder over the raita, giving it a pop of color and a subtle heat. Serve the Garlic Methi Raita chilled, alongside your favorite Indian dishes like Rajasthani Gatte Ki Sabzi and soft Phulkas for a complete meal.
Tips for Best Results
- Balance the Bitterness: Fenugreek leaves can sometimes be bitter. If you find the methi too bitter, you can blanch them briefly in hot water before sautéing to reduce some of the bitterness.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you like more heat, you can increase the amount of red chili powder or even add a pinch of green chili for an extra kick.
- Variation: For a creamier texture, you can blend the yogurt and methi mixture together instead of leaving it chunky.
Pairing Suggestions
This Garlic Methi Raita pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian meals. Try it with:
- Rajasthani Gatte Ki Sabzi: A rich, flavorful curry made with gram flour dumplings, perfect to balance the cooling effect of the raita.
- Phulkas or Parathas: Soft, Indian flatbreads that will scoop up the raita, making for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
- Spicy Vegetable Curries: The cooling and tangy flavors of the raita complement spicy, vegetable-based curries like Aloo Gobi or Baingan Bharta.
This Garlic Methi Raita is a great addition to any Indian meal, offering both nutritional value and a refreshing taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this raita will add a special touch to your meal. Enjoy!
