Mint and Pomegranate Raita: A Refreshing Indian Side Dish
Ideal for summer, this Mint and Pomegranate Raita is a delightful blend of tangy yogurt, cooling mint, sweet pomegranate, and aromatic spices, making it the perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals. Whether served with your favorite curries, rice, or flatbreads, this raita enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Ingredients for Mint and Pomegranate Raita
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hung curd (strained yogurt) | 2 cups |
| Pomegranate seeds | 1 cup |
| Mint leaves | 1/4 cup |
| Coriander leaves | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 4 cloves |
| Green chillies | 2 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Chaat masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Instructions for Preparing Mint and Pomegranate Raita
-
Prepare the Herb Paste:
Start by grinding together the mint leaves, coriander leaves, garlic cloves, and green chillies with a little water to form a smooth paste. Set the paste aside for later. -
Prepare the Yogurt Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the hung curd to smoothen it. Add a little water to achieve the desired consistency, making sure it’s not too thick. Season with salt, cumin powder, chaat masala powder, and sugar, then mix everything thoroughly. -
Combine:
Add the freshly made mint-coriander paste to the yogurt mixture and stir well to combine all the ingredients, infusing the flavors. -
Add the Pomegranate Seeds:
Just before serving, gently fold in the pomegranate seeds to retain their freshness and vibrant color. -
Serve:
Serve this delicious Mint and Pomegranate Raita chilled, as an accompaniment to dishes like Sev Tomato Sabzi, Garlic Daal, and Phulkas for a refreshing meal experience.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60-70 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | Varies (based on salt added) |
Serving Size: This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a small family gathering or to serve alongside a larger meal.
Why You’ll Love Mint and Pomegranate Raita
This raita is not just a cooling side dish; it’s a flavorful treat with multiple layers of taste. The combination of tangy yogurt, sweet pomegranate, and fresh herbs creates a balanced, savory-sweet flavor profile. It complements spicy Indian dishes wonderfully, calming the heat while adding freshness. The added cumin and chaat masala give it a savory depth, while the mint and coriander provide a refreshing finish. Perfect for hot summer days, this raita pairs beautifully with a variety of meals, from hearty curries to crispy fritters.
Tips for the Best Mint and Pomegranate Raita
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh mint, coriander, and pomegranate. Freshly ground spices will also enhance the raita’s flavor.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: Depending on your preference for spice, you can adjust the amount of green chillies and cumin powder. For a milder version, reduce the chillies or omit them entirely.
- Chill Before Serving: This raita is best served chilled. You can refrigerate it for an hour or so before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy the refreshing taste of this Mint and Pomegranate Raita as a perfect addition to your summer meals, elevating every bite with its unique combination of ingredients and spices.
