🥑🍅🧅 Avocado, Tomato, and Onion Raita 🥑🍅🧅
Avocado, Tomato, and Onion Raita is a delicious and refreshing Indian side dish or condiment made from a combination of creamy avocados, juicy tomatoes, and crisp onions blended with yogurt and a medley of spices. It’s a fusion of traditional Indian raita and a Western favorite, the avocado.
📜 History:
Raita is a traditional yogurt-based condiment in Indian cuisine. It’s believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent and has been consumed for centuries as a cooling accompaniment to spicy curries and dishes. The incorporation of avocados into raita is a modern twist, reflecting the global fusion of flavors that has become popular in recent years.
📦 Components:
The key components of Avocado, Tomato, and Onion Raita include:
- Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocados provide a smooth texture and healthy fats.
- Tomato: Adds a juicy, tangy element to the dish.
- Onion: Offers a refreshing crunch and a mild, pungent flavor.
- Yogurt: The base of the raita, yogurt provides creaminess and a slightly sour taste.
- Spices: Common spices used include cumin, coriander, salt, and sometimes red chili powder for a bit of heat.
- Fresh Herbs: Cilantro or mint leaves are often used for added freshness.
👩🍳 Preparation:
Here are the steps to prepare Avocado, Tomato, and Onion Raita:
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 medium onion
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro or mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Peel and dice the avocados, tomatoes, and onions.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the plain yogurt until smooth.
- Add the diced avocados, tomatoes, and onions to the yogurt.
- Sprinkle cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt over the mixture.
- Gently fold the ingredients together to combine. Be careful not to mash the avocados.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint leaves.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
⏰ Time Needed:
The preparation of Avocado, Tomato, and Onion Raita should take around 15-20 minutes. The additional 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator is recommended to enhance the flavors and serve it cool.
This raita is a delightful and healthy side dish that can be served with a variety of Indian dishes or enjoyed as a dip with naan, pita, or tortilla chips. Its fusion of flavors and textures makes it a unique and appealing addition to any meal. Enjoy! 🥑🍅🧅
🥑🍅🧅 Avocado, Tomato, and Onion Raita Nutrition Facts and Health Information 🥑🍅🧅
Here’s a brief overview of the nutrition facts and health information for Avocado, Tomato, and Onion Raita:
📊 Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):
- Calories: 120-150 calories
- Protein: 3-4 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams (mainly from avocados)
- Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams
- Fiber: 4-6 grams
- Sugars: 4-6 grams
- Vitamins and Minerals: Avocado contributes potassium, vitamins C, E, and K, while yogurt provides calcium and probiotics.
- The exact values may vary based on the specific quantities and brands of ingredients used.
🍽️ Health Information:
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Healthy Fats: Avocado is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
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Fiber: Both avocados and vegetables (tomatoes and onions) provide dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help with weight management.
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Probiotics: Yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut. They may enhance digestion and support the immune system.
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Vitamins and Antioxidants: Avocado offers various vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamins C, E, and K. These nutrients contribute to skin health, immune function, and overall well-being.
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Low Calorie: This raita is relatively low in calories, making it a suitable addition to a balanced diet, especially when paired with spicy or rich dishes to help balance out the meal.
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Vegetarian and Gluten-Free: This recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
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Hydration: The high water content in avocados, tomatoes, and yogurt helps keep you hydrated.
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Taste and Satisfaction: Raita can enhance the taste and enjoyment of spicier dishes, encouraging you to eat more vegetables and spices as part of your meal.
It’s important to note that the nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. As with any food, moderation is key, and it’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. This Avocado, Tomato, and Onion Raita is a delicious and nutritious side dish that can add both flavor and health benefits to your meals. 🥑🍅🧅