This raita is different than any we’ve had before, mostly because of how spicy it is. We thought it might be too much having a spicy dish on the side of a spicy dish, but it really did end up being a cooling element. Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them adds an incredible amount of flavor to this dish, and it’s definitely a key step. This is a great side for any Indian meal!
Soused Cucumbers in Yogurt and Fresh Mint (Kakadi Raita)
660 Curries: The Gateway to Indian Cooking – Raghaven Iyer
1 1/2 cups plain yogurt, whisked
1 teaspoon coarse kosher or sea salt
1 large English cucumber, ends trimmed off, peeled, cut in half lengthwise, seeds scooped out, shredded
1/2 cup firmly packed fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon cumin seeds, toasted and ground
2 or 3 fresh green Thai, cayenne, or serrano chiles, to taste, stems removed, finely chopped (do not remove the seeds)
Thoroughly combine all the ingredients in a medium-size bowl. Serve chilled or at room temperature. This will keep, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
MacGourmet Rating: 5 Stars
10 Comments
Josie
Ooooo that looks really good. Seriously, it made my mouth water. I am going to have to buy a cucumber…
Ashley
Definitely give it a shot! It’s a great version of raita that is very different from any other that I’ve had.
Sophia
Wow, that looks amazing! The colors and specks in there is so beautiful…This would go well with SO many dishes!
Lori
I just love raita- just made some with carrot.
Velva
Oh, this looks good. A spicy Indian yogurt. Very nice!
Ashley
Ooh…carrot sounds like a great addition!
Chelsea (Chelsea's Chew and Run Fun)
I love that you tagged it “wow.” Haha, although, judging from the recipe and picture it certainly looks wow-worthy.
Deborah
This makes me crave some good Indian food!
Hannah
How perfect, I have way too much plain soy yogurt on hand right now- This looks like just the thing to use it up with!
Ashley
I tag all of the recipes that we rate 5 stars with “wow”. It makes it easier to find our favorites 🙂
Let me know how the soy version turns out! I love how many soy products are available now! It really comes in handy when you have a lactose intolerant husband!