Crunchy Carrot Peanut Raita (Gajar Moongphali Raita) Recipe
Indulge in the deliciously refreshing Crunchy Carrot Peanut Raita, a delightful Indian side dish that combines the subtle sweetness of grated carrots with the rich crunch of roasted peanuts. The touch of Kashmiri red chilli powder and a hint of green chillies bring a flavorful kick to this creamy yogurt-based dish. Perfect for a light lunch or as an accompaniment to your favorite Indian meal, this raita is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrot (Gajjar), grated | 1-1/2 cups |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 2 cups |
| Raw Peanuts (Moongphali) | 1/4 cup |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chilli, chopped | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Peanut and Red Chilli Mixture:
Begin by preparing the peanut and red chilli spice mix. Heat a small pan over medium heat, then add the raw peanuts and dry red chillies. Roast them gently until the peanuts turn golden brown, ensuring that the spices release their aroma. Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for a moment before grinding it coarsely. -
Whisk the Yogurt:
In a large bowl, whisk the yogurt (curd) until smooth and creamy. This will serve as the base of your raita. -
Mix in the Grated Carrots:
Add the grated carrots to the creamy yogurt, stirring gently to combine. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs wonderfully with the tangy yogurt. -
Combine the Spices:
Add the prepared peanut and red chilli mixture, Kashmiri red chilli powder, and chopped green chilli into the yogurt-carrot mixture. Season with salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed. -
Adjust Consistency:
If the raita is too thick for your liking, add a splash of water to adjust the consistency. Stir well until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture. -
Chill and Garnish:
Refrigerate the Crunchy Carrot Peanut Raita for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped green chillies for an extra burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This crunchy and flavorful raita pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as an accompaniment to Paneer Pulao with Green Peas, Aloo Palak Sabzi, and Phulka for a complete and satisfying weeknight dinner. The combination of the nutty raita with these dishes will surely delight your taste buds.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
This Crunchy Carrot Peanut Raita is not only a delicious side dish but also a healthy addition to any Indian meal. Its crunchy texture from the peanuts and the fresh taste of grated carrots make it a crowd-pleaser at any table. Enjoy the balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy notes with every bite!
