Cucumber raita is a yogurt based Indian condiment consisting of cucumber, herbs and spices. Its very popularly paired with spicy curries and rice dishes like pulao and biryani to contrast the heat due to its cooling properties.
In a mixing bowl add the yogurt and whisk until smooth.
tir in the spices (salt, black salt, cumin seeds powder, chaat masala, black pepper powder), sugar and green chillies. Mix well.
Add in the grated cucumber. You can squeeze off the water if needed. I like to add the cucumber as is as the water helps thin out the yogurt consistency.
Finally add the chopped cilantro, mix and basic cucumber raita is ready!
You can now serve this either as is mentioned in option 1 or with tempering as mentioned in option 2
Option 1
You can serve the basic cucumber raita as is garnished with some cumin seeds powder, chaat masala, chilli powder and pomegranate pearls. Cucumber Raita is ready!! Serve as a side with your favorite main meal.
Option 2 – with Tadka (tempering)
To make the tempering – In a pan heat oil and add the mustard seeds. Once they splutter add the cumin seeds and curry leaves and switch off the heat. Let the tempering cool a bit and add it to the basic cucumber raita.
Smoky flavored cucumber raita is ready!! Serve as a side with your favorite main meal.
Notes
To make this vegan, just replace yogurt with vegan yogurt of choice.