Papad Raita Recipe: A Refreshing Side Dish for Every Meal
Papad Raita, a delightful and refreshing yogurt-based side dish, is a favorite addition to many Indian meals. It is a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crunchy elements that will elevate any meal. This easy-to-make raita is a great way to complement spiced dishes such as curries, rice, and rotis, adding a cool and tangy contrast to the palate.
Ingredients for Papad Raita:
| Ingredients | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Curd (Yogurt) | 2 cups | Beaten until smooth |
| Papad (Spiced Crackers) | 2 pieces | Crisped up |
| Cumin Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds a warm flavor |
| Paprika Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | For a subtle smoky heat |
| Coriander Leaves (Cilantro) | 2 sprigs | Finely chopped |
| Black Salt or Rock Salt | As per taste | For seasoning |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
How to Prepare Papad Raita:
-
Toast the Papad:
Begin by toasting the papad (spiced cracker) on the gas stove or in a microwave until it becomes crisp and golden. Once done, set it aside to cool. -
-
Prepare the Yogurt:
In a large bowl, take the beaten curd (yogurt). Whisk it well to make it smooth and creamy. -
Season the Yogurt:
To the yogurt, add the cumin powder, paprika powder, and salt (either black salt or rock salt, depending on your taste). Stir well until all the spices are thoroughly mixed into the yogurt. -
Chill the Raita:
Place the bowl in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to blend and the raita to chill, enhancing the taste. -
Crush and Add Papad:
Just before serving, crush the toasted papad into bite-sized pieces. Add the crushed papad to the yogurt mixture. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the papad raita with freshly chopped coriander leaves. The refreshing green garnish will add a burst of freshness to the dish. -
Serving Suggestion:
Serve the papad raita as a side dish with main courses like Panchmel Dal, Bharwa Bhindi (stuffed okra), and soft Phulkas (Indian flatbreads). This raita not only complements the flavors but also provides a cooling balance to spicier dishes.
Tips:
- You can customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of paprika or cumin powder.
- If you prefer a milder raita, you can skip the black salt and use regular salt.
- Papad raita can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, but it is best served fresh with the papad added just before serving to maintain its crunchiness.
This Papad Raita brings together the perfect combination of textures and flavors—cool yogurt, crispy papad, and aromatic spices—all in one bowl! Enjoy this delicious side dish with your favorite Indian meals for a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.
