Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Cucumber Raita with Toasted Cumin – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Creamy Cucumber Raita with Toasted Cumin

A simple, refreshing yogurt dip with a nutty, aromatic flavor from toasted cumin. This chilled, creamy cucumber raita is the ultimate cooling agent to balance any spicy Indian meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 41 minutes
Servings: 4 serving
Calories: 92
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large cucumber, about 10 oz / 300g
  • 2 to 3 Tbs. finely chopped onions, about 1.5 oz / 45g
  • 2 cups plain yogurt, about 16 oz / 480g
  • ¼ tsp . ground cumin, about 1g (0.04 oz)
  • ⅛ tsp . cayenne pepper, about 0.5g (0.02 oz)
  • Salt to taste
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), about 0.5 oz / 15g
  • for the Best Raita
  • For a richer flavor and creamier texture, use whole-milk plain yogurt. Greek yogurt also works for an extra thick consistency.
  • Toast whole cumin seeds and grind them fresh just before using for an even more intense, aromatic flavor.
  • For a different texture, you can finely dice the cucumber instead of grating it for a chunkier, crunchier bite.

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cucumber Base: Peel the cucumber, slice it in half lengthwise, and use a spoon to scoop out the watery seeds. Coarsely grate the cucumber flesh.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber, finely chopped onions, and yogurt.
  3. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
  4. Toast the Spices: In a small, dry pan over medium heat, toast the ground cumin for about 30 seconds until it becomes wonderfully fragrant—watch carefully to prevent burning. Immediately remove the pan from the heat. To temper the spice, quickly stir a tablespoon of the yogurt mixture into the hot pan, then pour this aromatic cumin slurry back into the main bowl.
  5. Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavor.
  6. Final Touches & Chilling: Stir in the cayenne pepper for a gentle kick, salt to your preferred taste, and the generous amount of fresh, chopped cilantro. For the best flavor, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  7. Serve cold as a refreshing counterpoint to your favorite spicy dishes.
  8. Squeeze the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or with your hands to remove excess water. This is the key to preventing a watery raita.
  9. Let the raita rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time is crucial for the flavors to meld and deepen.

Nutrition

Calories: 92kcalCarbohydrates: 9.6gProtein: 5gFat: 4.2g

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!