Jeera Raita: A Refreshing Cumin Yoghurt Delight
Description
Jeera Raita, a delightful Indian side dish, combines the cooling effect of natural yogurt with the warm, earthy tones of roasted cumin seeds, creating a refreshing accompaniment that perfectly complements spicy dishes. This mild, creamy raita is not only a feast for the palate but also a nourishing addition to any vegetarian meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Natural set yogurt | 200 ml |
| Milk | A splash |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tbsp |
| Cucumber, cubed | ½ |
| Large tomato, cubed | 1 |
| Red onion, very finely diced | ½ |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Chilli powder | 1 tsp |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp |
| Fresh coriander for garnish | To taste |
Preparation Instructions
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Roasting the Cumin: Begin by heating a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and dry roast them gently. Continuously stir the seeds until they turn a shade darker and release their aromatic, musky fragrance, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once roasted, remove the seeds from the heat.
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Crushing the Seeds: Allow the roasted cumin seeds to cool slightly, then transfer them to a pestle and mortar. Crush the seeds until they reach a fine powder, releasing their full flavor profile.
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Preparing the Yogurt Base: In a large mixing bowl, add the natural set yogurt. To achieve a desired runny consistency, add a splash of milk and mix well until smooth and creamy.
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Incorporating the Vegetables: Add the chopped cucumber, cubed tomato, and finely diced red onion to the yogurt mixture. Season with salt and the freshly crushed cumin. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
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Flavoring the Raita: Sprinkle the dish with chilli powder and garam masala, giving it an extra kick. Gently fold in the spices to incorporate their flavors throughout the raita.
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Garnishing and Serving: Transfer the raita to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh coriander sprigs. For optimal flavor, refrigerate the Jeera Raita for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Dietary Information
- Dietary Preference: Vegetarian
- Spice Level: Mild
Serving Suggestions
Jeera Raita pairs beautifully with spicy dishes such as biryani, pulao, or grilled meats, providing a refreshing contrast that balances flavors. It can also be enjoyed with a variety of Indian breads like naan or roti, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
This Jeera Raita is sure to delight your guests and family alike, showcasing the beautiful harmony of flavors that Indian cuisine is renowned for. Enjoy this delicious side dish at your next gathering, and savor the refreshing taste of cumin yogurt!
