Indian cucumber raita with coriander

Indian cucumber raita is a refreshing side dish made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and spices like cumin and coriander. It's a cooling accompaniment to spicy meals, enhancing their flavors.

17 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp coriander leaves
1/2 cup cucumber
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1 cup greek yogurt
1 tbsp onion
1 tsp coriander leaves
Indian cucumber raita with coriander

Cucumber raita is a refreshing Indian side dish that's both cooling and flavorful, often served alongside spicy dishes to provide balance. This particular version includes coriander and cumin, giving it a distinct and aromatic twist. With minimal ingredients, it’s a quick and easy addition to your meal.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the coriander leaves.
- Grate or finely chop the cucumber. If the cucumber is particularly watery, you can lightly squeeze out some of the excess water.
- Finely chop the onion.
2. Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the Greek yogurt.
- Stir in the chopped onion, grated cucumber, and 1 tsp of the finely chopped coriander leaves.
3. Seasoning:
- Add the ground cumin to the yogurt mixture.
- Mix all the ingredients well until everything is evenly combined.
4. Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the raita and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a bit more cumin or coriander, feel free to add a little more according to your taste.
5. Garnish:
- Transfer the raita to a serving dish.
- Garnish with the additional 1 tsp of coriander leaves on top for a burst of fresh flavor and a nice visual touch.
6. Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor, allow the raita to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve cold as a side dish or dip. It goes particularly well with Indian dishes like biryani, kebabs, or curries.

Indian cucumber raita with coriander and cumin is a simple yet flavorful dish that can elevate any meal. Not only does it provide a cooling contrast to spicy foods, but it also offers the aromatic richness of cumin and the fresh touch of coriander. Perfect for summer days or as a side to your favorite Indian dishes.

Indian cucumber raita with coriander FAQ:

How long should I chill the cucumber raita before serving?

For optimal flavor, it’s best to chill the cucumber raita in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances its refreshing qualities.

Can I make substitutions for Greek yogurt in this recipe?

Yes, if you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. However, this may slightly alter the thickness and creaminess of the raita.

What type of cucumber works best for this recipe?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal for raita as they are less watery and have fewer seeds than regular cucumbers, providing a firmer texture for the dish.

How should I store leftover cucumber raita?

Leftover raita can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving again as some separation may occur.

What can I serve with cucumber raita?

Cucumber raita pairs well with various Indian dishes, especially spicy items like biryani, kebabs, curries, or even as a dip for naan or chips.

Tips:

- Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier texture.

- Grate the cucumber finely to integrate better with the yogurt.

- Toast the cumin seeds before grinding for an enhanced flavor.

- Allow the raita to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld together.

- Add a pinch of salt to heighten the flavors.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 210kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 0.55g
Sugar 9g
Fat 10g

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