Carrot-Cashew Raita
Cook Time: 4 hours
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Description: This delightful Carrot-Cashew Raita, inspired by a recipe from The Art of Vegetarian Indian Cooking by Yamuna Devi, is a refreshing accompaniment that is a must-have for vegetarian cooks and anyone interested in the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. This dish combines the creamy tang of yogurt with the natural sweetness of carrots and dates, making it a unique and wholesome addition to any meal.
Recipe Category: Vegetable
Keywords: Asian, Indian, Vegetarian, Raita, Side Dish
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | Plain low-fat yogurt |
| 3 | Carrots (grated) |
| 8 | Dates (pitted and chopped) |
| 4 | Cashews (chopped) |
| 1 1/2 | Lime zest |
| 2 | Brown sugar |
| 1 | Cardamom seeds (ground) |
| 1/4 | Kosher salt |
| 1 | Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 143.1 |
| Total Fat | 4.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 4.9 mg |
| Sodium | 140.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sugars | 17.1 g |
| Protein | 5.9 g |
Instructions
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Strain the Yogurt: Begin by straining the yogurt to remove excess moisture. This can be done by lining a fine-mesh strainer or colander with cheesecloth or a clean tea towel. Scoop the yogurt into the lined strainer, then gather the corners of the cloth, tie them securely, and hang the bundle from your kitchen faucet or another suitable place. Allow the yogurt to strain for 1 to 3 hours, depending on how thick you prefer the raita.
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Whisk the Yogurt: Once the yogurt has been strained to your liking, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Use a whisk to beat the yogurt until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps remaining.
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Combine Ingredients: To the smooth yogurt, add the grated carrots, chopped dates, chopped cashews, lime zest, brown sugar, ground cardamom, and kosher salt. Gently fold these ingredients into the yogurt until everything is well combined and evenly distributed, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the raita for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. This dish can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile side dish for your meals. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for an extra burst of flavor and color.
This Carrot-Cashew Raita is perfect for serving alongside spicy dishes, providing a cooling contrast that balances the heat. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and the delightful textures of this Indian-inspired dish that is sure to impress your family and friends!
