This refreshing and quick Cucumber and mint raita is perfect for summer meals. Made with fresh cucumbers and mint from the kitchen garden, this simple dip combines whisked yogurt with finely chopped cucumbers and mild spices, offering a cool, healthy, and delightful accompaniment to any dish.
Hello everyone! It feels like a little while since I last shared a recipe here on My Weekend Kitchen. Glancing back, I realized my last post was way back on April 1st! Time truly flies, especially with all the exciting happenings on the farm and our work promoting sustainability education in schools. These past couple of months have been a whirlwind of planting, nurturing, and sharing the importance of mindful living with young minds.
But amidst the busy days, the kitchen remains my sanctuary, and today I’m happy to share a simple seasonal recipe: Cucumber Raita with a Hint of Kitchen Garden Mint.
This simple Cucumber Raita is more than just a cooling side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The cucumbers, crisp and hydrating, come straight from a local farm. And the mint? Oh, the mint! It grows right on my kitchen windowsill! There’s something truly special about incorporating ingredients grown with love, just steps away from your cooking space. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the connection to nature and the pure goodness you’re bringing to your table. I smile every time I cross my small mint pot with its vibrant green leaves.
Cucmber and Mint Raita
Ingredients (1cup = 240ml; 1tbsp = 15ml; 1tsp = 5ml)
- 2 cups thick yogurt preferably homemade for extra freshness
- 1 medium cucumber
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves finely chopped (straight from the windowsill!)
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder
- A pinch of paprika optional, for a touch of heat and color
Instructions
- Peel the cucumber and chop it finely.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the thick yogurt until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Add the finely chopped cucumber and fresh mint leaves to the whisked yogurt.
- Season with salt, roasted cumin powder, and paprika (if using). Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
- Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with a fresh mint leaf before serving.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy. It tastes even better after chilling for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Video
This Cucumber Raita is simple, seasonal and delicious, making it a perfect companion for any meal. Pack it in your tiffin for a refreshing lunch, serve it alongside your favourite spicy curry at dinner, or enjoy it as a light and cooling snack on a hot afternoon.
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