Beat the summer heat with these refreshing and nutritious raita recipes! Cucumber Raita cools and hydrates while aiding digestion, making it a perfect side for spicy meals. Beetroot Raita adds a vibrant touch, boosting energy and detoxifying the body. Enjoy these light, probiotic-rich dishes for a healthy summer treat!

Cucumber Raita

Ingredients:

• 350ml natural yoghurt (full-fat or low-fat, as you prefer)
• 1 medium cucumber, grated or finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped (or coriander, or a mix of both)
• ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• ¼ teaspoon black salt (kala namak) or regular salt, to taste
• A pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice(optional)

Instructions:

• Wash the cucumber thoroughly.
• You can peel the cucumber, or leave the skin on, depending on your preference. If the cucumber's skin is quite thick, it's best to peel it.
• Grate the cucumber, or dice it into small pieces.
• If the cucumber is very watery, gently squeeze out the excess liquid. This will prevent the raita from becoming too runny.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the yoghurt, grated cucumber, and chopped herbs.
• Add the roasted cumin powder, salt (or black salt.
• Add the lemon juice if you desire.
• Mix everything thoroughly, until the spices are evenly distributed.
• For the best flavour, chill the raita in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Serve it as a side dish with biryani, pilau, or any spicy curry.

Tips and Variations:

• Consistency: If you prefer a thinner raita, add a tablespoon or two of milk or water.
• Ginger: a very small amount of grated ginger adds a lovely flavour.
• Garnishes: You can garnish the raita with a sprinkle of paprika, fresh herbs, or a few cucumber slices before serving.

Advantages of Cucumber Raita

Cooling Effect: Yogurt and cucumber have natural cooling properties that help regulate body temperature and prevent heat-related issues like dehydration and heat strokes.

Hydration Boost: Cucumber is rich in water content (about 95%), keeping you hydrated during hot summer days.

Aids Digestion: The probiotics in yogurt promote gut health, improve digestion, and prevent acidity, bloating, and indigestion.

Low-Calorie & Healthy: A light, nutritious dish that helps in weight management while providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Rich in Electrolytes: Helps replenish lost minerals like potassium and sodium, preventing fatigue and dehydration.

Beetroot Raita

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yogurt (curd)
• 1 small beetroot (boiled & grated)
• ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• ¼ teaspoon black salt (or regular salt)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1 green chilli (finely chopped, optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

• Whisk the yogurt until smooth and creamy. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water if needed.
• Boil and grate the beetroot. Let it cool before mixing it into the yogurt.
• Add roasted cumin powder, black salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using).
• Mix in green chili and coriander leaves.
• Stir well.
• Sprinkle red chilli powder and extra cumin powder. Serve chilled with meals.

Advantages of Beetroot Raita

Natural Cooling Effect - Yogurt and beetroot help regulate body temperature, preventing heat strokes.

Hydrating & Refreshing - Beetroot has high water content, keeping you hydrated.

Aids Digestion - Probiotics in yogurt support gut health and prevent bloating.

Detoxifies the Body - Beetroot flushes out toxins and promotes liver health.

Boosts Energy - High in iron and folate, it improves blood circulation, reducing summer fatigue.

Glowing Skin - Antioxidants in beetroot combat sun damage and keep skin healthy.

Light & Low-Calorie - A nutritious, easy-to-digest summer-friendly dish.