Nellikai Pachadi Recipe (Amla/Gooseberry Raita)
The Nellikai Pachadi, also known as Amla Raita, is a delightful and healthy side dish that perfectly complements a variety of Indian meals. This raita is made using the nutrient-packed Nellikai (Gooseberry), which is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. When combined with fresh yogurt, grated coconut, and a dash of mustard, the result is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful accompaniment. This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with Dosas, Parathas, and even rice-based dishes like Pulao, making it an essential addition to your next meal.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 2 cups (whisked) |
| Amla (Nellikai / Gooseberry) | 4 (grated) |
| Fresh Coconut | 1/4 cup (grated) |
| Cucumber | 1 (peeled and grated) |
| Green Chillies | 2 (finely chopped) |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai / Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Gooseberry Mixture:
- Start by placing the raw gooseberries (Nellikai), grated coconut, chopped green chillies, and salt in a blender. Grind them into a coarse mixture and set it aside.
-
Whisk the Yogurt:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt (curd) until smooth and creamy.
-
Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the ground gooseberry mixture to the whisked yogurt. Stir in the grated cucumber for added freshness and texture. Taste the raita and adjust the salt or spice levels to your preference.
-
Prepare the Seasoning:
- Heat the oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to crackle. Once they pop, remove the pan from the heat.
-
Add the Seasoning:
- Pour the hot mustard seed seasoning over the prepared Nellikai Pachadi (Amla Raita) and give it a gentle stir to mix.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the raita to a serving bowl and serve it alongside your favorite Indian dishes like Pulao, Dosas, or Parathas.
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Vitamin C | 25mg |
Tips:
- You can add a few fresh curry leaves along with mustard seeds for extra flavor in the seasoning.
- If you prefer a spicier raita, feel free to add more green chillies or a pinch of red chilli powder.
- This raita can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of hours, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
Nellikai Pachadi is an excellent side dish to serve with a variety of main courses, including your favorite pulao, vegetable biryani, Dosas, or even chapati. The creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a perfect cooling accompaniment to any spicy meal.
This simple yet nutritious Amla Raita not only adds a burst of flavor but also provides a healthy dose of antioxidants and Vitamin C, making it a great choice for a wholesome and refreshing side dish. Enjoy this recipe for its vibrant taste and health benefits!
