Raita Recipe Indian Yogurt Sauce

Why We Love This Recipe

Raita is an Indian yogurt-based condiment served with all sorts of popular dishes. It can be served as a side dish with spicy curries to help cool them down, mixed into Pulao and Biryani rice dishes to offer creamy texture, or used as a dipping sauce for Indian street foods such as Vegetable Pakora and Chicken Pakora. Raita recipes, like salsa or other popular dipping sauces, come in many variations… There are thin watery types of Raita that can be tangy or slightly sweet. There are chunky versions of Raita. They are even thick scoopable variations. Today we’re sharing one base recipe and two variations: You can either purée everything together in a food processor for a smooth thick dip version, or mix the ingredients in a bowl for a thinner chunky version. Both of these methods can be slightly sweetened with a small amount of sugar. Taste the finished version before adding sugar to determine if it is needed. Also, both of these methods can be made slightly more rich by the addition of olive oil. The oil is not necessary, but does balance the tartness of the yogurt. Either way, you’re going to love this delicious Indian yogurt sauce!

Ingredients You Need

Greek yogurt – plain, whole or 2% fat Cucumber – diced (optional, but highly recommended) Onion – diced Lemon juice – fresh Cilantro – chopped (coriander leaves) Salt – a pinch Ground cumin powder – smoky, earthy Olive oil – or other high-quality neutral-tasting oil, like avocado oil (oil is optional) Sugar – balances the tart and rich flavors

How to Make Smooth Pureed Raita

Set out a large food processor. Add the yogurt, fresh produce, and spices to the food processor. Purée until very smooth. Then open the lid and slowly drizzle olive oil into the Raita to emulsify and create a silkier texture. Once smooth, turn off the food processor. Chill until ready to serve.

How to Make Chunky Raita

Set out a medium mixing bowl. Add the yogurt, lime juice, salt, and ground cumin. Mix with a spoon. Then stir in finely diced cucumber, onion, and cilantro. Add oil or sugar if desired. (For chunky cucumber raita, you may want to add an extra, ¼ cup of yogurt.) Chill until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Both chunky and smooth Raita sauces are perfect for serving alongside your favorite Indian cuisine-inspired dishes! Pair the tangy Indian yogurt sauce with some homemade Paratha, Roti, or Naan, and serve with any of these classic dishes:

Indian Grilled Chicken Authentic Paneer Tikka Masala Authentic Saag Paneer Instant Pot Butter Chicken Mung Daal (Moong Dal)

Make it a full meal and bring some other delicious sides to the table! We love to serve Indian dishes with fluffy Basmati Rice, Zucchini and Green Chutney Salad, and Green Mango Chaat.