Raita, a popular Indian condiment, has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. A simple mixture of yogurt, spices, and vegetables or fruits, raita is not only refreshing but also versatile. Whether you’re looking for a cooling accompaniment to spicy dishes or a healthy snack, raita fits the bill perfectly. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and creamy raita recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic combinations like cucumber-mint to innovative pairings like pineapple-carrot, we’ve got you covered.
Cucumber Mint Raita
A refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with Indian-inspired meals, this Cucumber Mint Raita is a simple and flavorful condiment to add to your repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber and salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow excess water to release.
2. Squeeze out as much liquid from the cucumber mixture as possible using your hands or a clean kitchen towel.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mint leaves, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Add the drained cucumber mixture to the yogurt mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Boondi Raita
A cooling and creamy side dish that pairs perfectly with spicy Indian dishes, Boondi Raita is a simple yogurt-based recipe that’s quick to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup gram flour (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– Ghee or oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, gram flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to form a smooth paste.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into the hot oil and fry until they puff up and turn golden brown.
5. Remove the fried boondis from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt and a pinch of salt.
7. Add the fried boondis to the yogurt mixture and stir gently.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beetroot Raita
A refreshing and healthy side dish or snack, Beetroot Raita is a perfect accompaniment to Indian meals.
Ingredients:
• 2 large beetroot, peeled and grated
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the grated beetroot and salt.
2. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the natural sweetness of the beetroot to be released.
3. Drain the excess liquid from the beetroot mixture and add the cumin powder. Mix well.
4. Add the plain yogurt and mix until a smooth, creamy consistency is achieved.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or snack.
Pineapple Raita
A refreshing twist on traditional yogurt raitas, this Pineapple Raita combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of yogurt and spices.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
• 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt and honey until smooth.
2. Add the diced pineapple, cumin, and salt. Mix well to combine.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (prep time only)
Serve: Chilled, as a side dish or dessert. Enjoy!
Carrot Ginger Raita
A refreshing twist on traditional Indian raita, this Carrot Ginger version adds natural sweetness and a pop of color to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain yogurt (dahi)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated carrots and ginger.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, and cumin until smooth.
3. Add the salt to the yogurt mixture and whisk well.
4. Fold the carrot-ginger mixture into the yogurt mixture until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes refrigeration time)
Spinach Raita
A refreshing Indian-inspired yogurt-based side dish that pairs perfectly with spicy curries or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder, 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, chopped spinach, and diced cucumber.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and mix well.
3. Add salt to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. If desired, add cumin powder and coriander powder for an extra boost of flavor.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking, just assembly and chilling.
Tomato Onion Raita
A refreshing and flavorful Indian-inspired condiment, Tomato Onion Raita is a perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and sliced onions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, and cumin until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the tomato-onion mixture and gently fold to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Pomegranate Raita
This sweet and tangy raita is a perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes or a delightful snack on its own. The pomegranate adds a pop of color and flavor to the traditional yogurt-based condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pomegranate
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt and honey until smooth.
2. Add the diced pomegranate, ground cardamom, and salt. Mix well.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This raita is best served straight from the fridge.
Sweet Corn Raita
A refreshing Indian-inspired side dish that pairs perfectly with spicy curries or as a light and healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and cumin until smooth.
2. Add the corn kernels to the yogurt mixture and stir gently to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Garlic Raita
A creamy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with spicy Indian dishes, this Garlic Raita is a simple yet impressive accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin until smooth.
2. Season with salt to taste.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Potato Raita
A refreshing twist on traditional raita, this potato-based version is perfect as a side dish or a cooling accompaniment to spicy meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large boiling potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the diced potatoes until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, and cumin.
3. Add the cooled potatoes to the yogurt mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (for boiling potatoes), plus chilling time.
Banana Raita
A refreshing and creamy dessert, Banana Raita is a popular Indian treat that combines the sweetness of bananas with the tanginess of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup plain yogurt (dahi)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced bananas and honey. Mix well to coat the bananas evenly.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt and cardamom powder until smooth.
3. Add the yogurt mixture to the banana mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits, if desired.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Roasted Eggplant Raita
A refreshing twist on traditional Indian raitas, this roasted eggplant version adds a smoky depth to the creamy yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with salt and let sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
3. Rinse the eggplant under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels.
4. Roast the eggplant on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, and cumin.
6. Add roasted eggplant to the yogurt mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including roasting time)
Apple Walnut Raita
A refreshing twist on traditional raita, this Apple Walnut Raita combines the sweetness of apples and walnuts with the creaminess of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced apple and chopped walnuts.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and honey until smooth.
3. Add the apple-walnut mixture to the yogurt mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: Chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or snack.
Curry Leaf Raita
A refreshing and flavorful condiment from Indian cuisine, Curry Leaf Raita is a perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes or as a side with naan or rice. This recipe combines the pungency of curry leaves with the creaminess of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh curry leaves (about 4-6 leaves)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, and cumin until smooth.
2. Add chopped curry leaves and mix well to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Peanut Raita
A refreshing twist on traditional raita, this peanut-based version is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced tomato
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt and peanut butter until smooth.
2. Add the diced cucumber, tomato, and cilantro to the bowl.
3. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Radish Raita
A refreshing twist on traditional raita, this radish version adds a delightful crunch and spicy kick to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large radishes, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the grated radish, yogurt, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well until the radish is fully coated.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, give the raita a good stir.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time) + 30 minutes (chilling time)
Servings: 4-6
Avocado Raita
A creamy and refreshing twist on traditional Indian raita, this Avocado Raita recipe combines the silky texture of ripe avocados with the cooling flavors of yogurt and cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the chopped cucumber, lime juice, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Date Tamarind Raita
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic Indian yogurt-based side dish, this Date Tamarind Raita is perfect for hot summer days or as a refreshing accompaniment to your favorite curries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup chopped dates (softened)
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, dates, tamarind paste, and honey until smooth.
2. Add cardamom powder and salt; mix well.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Spicy Mango Raita
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing Spicy Mango Raita, perfect for hot summer days or as a tangy accompaniment to spicy dishes. This creamy condiment combines the sweetness of mangoes with the heat of chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1-2 teaspoons green chili pepper paste (adjust to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt and honey until smooth.
2. Add diced mango and mix well.
3. Stir in green chili pepper paste, adjusting the level of heat to your liking.
4. Season with salt to balance flavors.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat with these 20 creamy raita recipes! From classic Cucumber Mint Raita to innovative Spinach Raita and Beetroot Raita, we’ve got you covered. Indulge in sweet treats like Banana Raita or Apple Walnut Raita, or spice things up with Spicy Mango Raita. Try new flavor combinations like Carrot Ginger Raita or Radish Raita, or go for a classic yogurt-based raita to pair with your favorite Indian dishes. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a cooling snack, these creamy raitas are sure to delight!