Mint and Pomegranate Raita Recipe
Introduction
Mint and Pomegranate Raita is a quintessential side dish that brings together the refreshing flavors of mint and coriander with the sweet bursts of pomegranate pearls, all nestled in the creamy goodness of yogurt. Perfect for summer meals, this raita pairs wonderfully with rich curries or spiced rice dishes. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or preparing a simple weeknight dinner, this raita adds a vibrant touch to your table.
Recipe Details
| Cuisine | Indian |
|---|---|
| Course | Side Dish |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hung Curd (Greek Yogurt) | 2 cups |
| Anardana Powder (Pomegranate Seed Powder) | 1 cup |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 1/4 cup |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic | 3-4 cloves |
| Green Chillies | 2 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Chaat Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approximate Values)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Sugars | 7 g |
Instructions
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Blend mint leaves, coriander leaves, garlic, and green chillies in a mixer with a little water to create a smooth chutney-like paste. Transfer the paste to a bowl and set aside. |
| 2 | In a separate bowl, whisk the hung curd using a hand blender or wire whisk. Add about 1/4 cup of water to adjust the consistency to your preference. Ensure the yogurt is smooth and lump-free. |
| 3 | Season the yogurt with salt, cumin powder, chaat masala, and sugar. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined. |
| 4 | Gently fold the prepared mint-coriander paste into the seasoned yogurt. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. |
| 5 | If you are not serving immediately, refrigerate the raita to chill. This enhances its refreshing taste. |
| 6 | Just before serving, add the pomegranate pearls to the raita and stir gently to combine. |
| 7 | Serve chilled or at room temperature as an accompaniment to your favorite dishes such as Layered Paneer Butter Masala Biryani or Methi and Palak Paratha. |
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Mint and Pomegranate Raita with:
- Layered Paneer Butter Masala Biryani – The creamy and tangy raita balances the richness of the biryani perfectly.
- Methi and Palak Paratha – Serve alongside these flavorful parathas for a wholesome meal.
- Grilled vegetables or kebabs – The coolness of the raita complements smoky and spiced dishes beautifully.
Tips for the Perfect Raita
- Yogurt Consistency: Use thick, creamy yogurt for the best texture. If you’re using regular yogurt, strain it through a muslin cloth to remove excess water.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh mint and coriander for maximum flavor and aroma.
- Pomegranate Seeds: To extract pomegranate seeds easily, cut the fruit in half and tap the back with a wooden spoon over a bowl.
This Mint and Pomegranate Raita is not just a side dish; it’s a burst of freshness that elevates any meal it accompanies. Enjoy the harmony of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes in every spoonful!
