Carrot Tadka Raita Recipe: A Fusion of Crunchy Carrots and Flavorful Spices
Carrot Tadka Raita is an easy and delightful Indian side dish that combines the crunchiness of freshly grated carrots with the creamy tang of yogurt. What sets this raita apart is the aromatic tadka (tempering) made with cumin seeds, garlic, and a pinch of asafoetida. This simple addition elevates the dish, giving it a burst of flavor that complements any Indian meal. Perfect for pairing with parathas or spiced rice, this vegetarian dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 2 cups |
| Carrots (Gajjar), grated | 2 |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina), chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Chilli, finely chopped | 1 |
| Black Salt (Kala Namak) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 1/2 teaspoon (for tadka) |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon (for tadka) |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 3 cloves |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
| Stage | Duration (in minutes) |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 |
| Cooking Time | 5 |
| Total Time | 15 |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80-100 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fats | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Note: Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands used. |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Yogurt Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of yogurt (curd).
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of black salt, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder, and salt to taste.
- Whisk the yogurt until smooth and creamy.
-
-
Incorporate the Vegetables
- Add the grated carrots (2 carrots) into the whisked yogurt.
- Mix in 1 tablespoon each of finely chopped coriander leaves and mint leaves.
- Toss in 1 finely chopped green chili.
- Stir well to ensure the vegetables are evenly distributed.
-
Prepare the Flavorful Tadka
- Heat 1/2 teaspoon of oil in a small pan over medium heat.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds and allow them to splutter.
- Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic.
- Sauté until the garlic turns golden brown and aromatic.
-
Combine and Serve
- Pour the prepared tadka over the yogurt and carrot mixture.
- Gently mix the tadka with the raita, ensuring the flavors are well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the taste.
-
Pair and Enjoy
- Serve Carrot Tadka Raita as a refreshing side dish with Stuffed Mooli Parathas or Baby Corn and Tomato Mixed Rice for a complete meal experience.
Tips for the Perfect Raita
- Fresh Yogurt: Always use fresh, thick yogurt for the best results.
- Crunchy Texture: Grate the carrots just before mixing to retain their crunch.
- Custom Tadka: Experiment with adding mustard seeds or curry leaves for variation.
- Chilling is Key: Allow the raita to chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Carrot Tadka Raita is a versatile dish that not only enhances the flavors of your meal but also adds a nutritional boost. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to whip up something quick yet flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or preparing a cozy family meal, this raita will always win hearts!
