Cucumber Raita (Indian Yogurt Dip)

by he on 5. February, 2023 | give feedback. This post may contain affiliate links*. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Creamy, cooling cucumber raita is a popular Indian spice/ dip with fresh herbs and spices that takes minutes to throw together using simple, inexpensive ingredients and is perfect for turning down the heat on all your favorite Indian dishes! Plus, this version is also dairy-free!

Whether you’re a whip up currya large part Fried onions, or looking for a snack to enjoy with leftover naan/chips, yogurt-based dishes like this cucumber raita are a must-have for any Indian meal. It’s creamy, cool, soothing, tangy, flavorful and comes together in minutes!

What is raita?

Raita is a traditional Indian yogurt dip/masala. It is usually made with plain full-fat yogurt (yogurt- ‘dahi’) with some vegetables (sometimes pineapple or even fruits like the gram-based bundi raita), herbs and spices.

This time, I am making a super refreshing cucumber raita (called ‘khira raita’). This Indian Cucumber Yogurt Sauce is perfect for the hot summer months and to moderate the heat in spicy dishes all year round! Plus, this Indian yogurt sauce requires just a few simple, inexpensive ingredients.

Veganizing proved really easy with just a simple ingredient swap (dairy to non-dairy yogurt!). The results are extremely satisfying and perfect to enjoy with any spicy dish, the same way I enjoy my creamy. Cucumber Salad Long hours in the kitchen and picnics all summer.

material

With a simple selection of seasonings, aromatics and herbs, this cucumber raita is packed with flavor with less than a dozen popular kitchen/pantry ingredients.

• Cucumber: Fewer-seeded, thin-skinned varieties are better, such as English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. Make sure it does not taste bitter before using it.
• Onions: I like to use red onions, although green onions work for a sweet-smelling cucumber onion raita.
• Garlic: Although not traditional, I like to add a little garlic for extra flavor.
• Curd: To make this raita sauce recipe vegetarian, use a thick dairy-free yogurt, such as unsweetened coconut yogurt, cashew yogurt, or soy yogurt.
• Spices: I use a combination of coriander seeds, cumin powder, salt and black pepper for this Indian yogurt dip.
• Lemon Syrup: (or lemon juice) for acidity and brightness.
• Raw Chili: (Optional) For a kick, add a green chili (de-seeded for a milder flavor) or green chili paste. Alternatively, use cayenne pepper or cayenne pepper.
• Fresh Vegetables: This raita recipe uses coriander (or parsley) and mint leaves for a fresh, aromatic flavor. Feel free to use just one if preferred though.

What else can I add?

There are many variations of this Indian curd sauce. Ingredients that go well with this Cucumber Raita, you can enjoy:

• ginger: A small amount of minced ginger or ginger juice adds heat and depth.
• Chaat masala: Sprinkle on top while serving.
• Other vegetables: Add any of the following to make mixed vegetable raita sauce.
  • Finely chopped tomatoes
  • Finely chopped/chopped bell pepper
  • Shredded vegetables

You can also make a delicious easy raita recipe using chopped carrots or beetroot.

Read the recipe card below for this Full ingredient list, Measurements, full recipe method, and nutrition information.

How to make cucumber raita?

Follow three easy steps to make this delicious cucumber raita recipe in just a few minutes.

• First, finely grate the cucumber, squeeze out excess liquid with your hands (or use an almond milk bag/clean tea towel). Also, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
• Then, combine the grated cucumber with the remaining ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.
• Let the raita marinate in the fridge for 20-30 minutes, then taste and adjust any seasoning.

Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate until you’re ready to serve!

What to serve with raita sauce?

You can enjoy this Cucumber Mint Raita as a dip, condiment or side dish with:

You can also add it to Pakistani dishes and other spicy dishes, or use it non-traditionally as a dressing for grain salads or cooked proteins.

Storage instructions

Store any leftover vegan raita in an airtight container in the fridge 3 days. However, the flavor will change as it sits, so you’ll need to top up the spices/lemon.

FAQs

What is the difference between tzatziki vs raita?

Although they are both cucumber and yogurt-based, additional spices and flavors set them apart. Tazatziki It’s usually thicker because it’s made with Greek yogurt versus the full-fat plain yogurt used in raita recipes.

Cucumber raita will freeze?

I do not recommend freezing the raita, as the texture, consistency and flavor will all be affected.

Can I use regular cucumber for raita?

Any cucumbers with thick skin or lots of seeds should be peeled and/or de-seeded (use a spoon to break them in half) before using them for raita.

What if my yogurt is too thin?

I often make my own yogurt from young fresh coconut, but you can try thickening your yogurt by mixing it with soft tofu.

Recipe notes and tips

• For improved taste: Toast the spices in a pan until fragrant before using them, or make a ‘tadka’ (tempered spice), as I did. Green lentils.
• Adjust the texture: Instead of grating for a different textured raita yogurt sauce, you can peel the cucumber (for a softer, more melt-in-your-mouth texture) or finely chop it (no need to squeeze out excess liquid).
• Leave to marinate: So the flavors will blend and become a well-rounded (delicious) sauce.

More vegan Indian recipes and curries

I would love if you try this easy raita recipe Comment and ★★★★★ Recipe rating Down below. Also, please don’t forget Tag me in a re-creation on Instagram or Facebook with @ellavegan #Elvegan– I love to see them.

If you use PINTEREST, feel free to pin the photo below: