Gajar Amla Raita Recipe – Carrot Gooseberry Raita
Raitas, a staple in Indian cuisine, are made from whipped curd or yogurt and served as a refreshing side dish to complement main meals like Biryani, Pulao, or even Parathas. They are known for their cooling properties, which provide a perfect balance to the rich and spicy flavors of Indian dishes. This Gajar Amla Raita Recipe combines the goodness of grated carrots, fresh coconut, and the tangy taste of amla (gooseberries), all stirred together in creamy yogurt, creating a flavorful and healthy accompaniment.
In this variation of raita, the unique tanginess of amla is brought together with the earthy sweetness of carrot and coconut, creating a beautifully balanced side dish. The raita is further elevated by a simple tempering of mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves, infusing it with an aromatic depth. Perfect for serving alongside your favorite biryani or pulao, this Gajar Amla Raita is a delightful way to enjoy vegetables while keeping the flavors light and refreshing.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1 cup |
| Carrot (Gajjar), grated | 1 medium-sized |
| Amla (Nellikai / Gooseberry), cut and deseeded | 4 berries |
| Split Mustard Seeds (Rai Kuria) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coconut, grated | 2 tablespoons |
| Green Chilli, finely chopped | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
| For Tempering: | |
| Oil | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai / Kadugu) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Yogurt Base:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add 1 cup of curd (yogurt) and a pinch of salt. Using a whisk, beat the yogurt until it is smooth and free from lumps. Set this aside.
-
Prepare the Amla:
- Cut the amla (gooseberries) into small pieces, removing the seeds. Toss them with 1/4 teaspoon of split mustard seeds (rai kuria), 1/4 teaspoon of red chilli powder, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture rest for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
-
Assemble the Raita:
- Once the amla has rested, add 1 grated carrot, 1 finely chopped green chilli, and the grated coconut to the prepared yogurt. Then, stir in the amla mixture, making sure all ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
-
Prepare the Tempering:
- In a small tempering pan, heat 1/4 teaspoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1/4 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1/4 teaspoon of cumin seeds. Allow the mustard seeds to crackle. Stir in the curry leaves and immediately turn off the heat.
-
Finish the Raita:
- Pour the hot tempering mixture over the prepared Gajar Amla Raita. Give everything a good mix to ensure the tempering is well incorporated into the raita.
-
Serve:
- Serve the Gajar Amla Raita immediately as a side dish with your favorite Hyderabadi Vegetable Biryani or Mirchi Ka Salan for a delicious and balanced meal.
This Gajar Amla Raita, with its rich texture and flavorful combination, is a perfect addition to any meal. Its cooling properties make it an ideal side dish for spicy main courses, offering both a burst of freshness and a subtle tang. Enjoy the vibrant taste of this traditional Indian raita, which is both easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients!
