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Cool as a Cucumber: Refreshing Indian Raita

Creamy, cooling yogurt dip with crisp cucumber, fragrant herbs, and a gentle spice kick.

Janelle

By Janelle

Updated: January 18, 2026

Why I Love This Recipe

Raita is a cornerstone of Indian cuisine, a soothing counterpoint to the fiery curries and complex flavors that define the region's food. More than just a condiment, it's a vital element that brings balance to the meal, offering a refreshing coolness that cleanses the palate. This particular version, a beloved classic, features the crisp bite of cucumber, the subtle heat of green chili, and the vibrant freshness of cilantro and mint, all harmonizing beautifully with the creamy yogurt base.

  • •Instant Cooling Relief - Provides a refreshing counterpoint to spicy dishes, calming the palate with its cool yogurt base.
  • •Herbaceous Harmony - The combination of fresh cilantro and mint delivers a vibrant, aromatic flavor that elevates the simple yogurt base.
  • •Textural Contrast - The crispness of the cucumber and the slight crunch of the red onion provide a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy yogurt.
  • •Digestive Aid - Yogurt is known for its probiotic properties, which can aid digestion and promote gut health, especially after a rich meal.
  • •Subtle Spice Kick - A hint of green chili and cumin powder adds a gentle warmth that complements the other flavors without overpowering them.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here's what you'll need – nothing too fancy, just good ingredients that work together beautifully.

  • 2 cups Plain Yogurt (full-fat or Greek yogurt)
  • 1 Cucumber (peeled, seeded, and finely chopped)
  • 1/4 Red Onion (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Mint (finely chopped)
  • 1/2 Green Chili (finely chopped, optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cumin Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (or to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the yogurt by whisking it in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. This ensures that the raita has a consistent texture and avoids any lumps. A smooth base is essential for the other flavors to blend seamlessly.

    ~2 min

    Tip: If using Greek yogurt, you may need to add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it to the desired consistency.
  2. 2

    Finely chop the cucumber, red onion, cilantro, mint, and green chili (if using). The finer the chop, the better the flavors will meld together. Consistent sizes in your chop will give a more appealing aesthetic.

    ~5 min

    Tip: Remove the seeds from the cucumber to prevent the raita from becoming too watery.
  3. 3

    Add the chopped cucumber, red onion, cilantro, mint, and green chili (if using) to the bowl with the yogurt. Gently fold the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed throughout the yogurt base. Avoid overmixing.

    ~2 min

    Tip: Add the red onion gradually, tasting as you go, as its flavor can be quite strong.
  4. 4

    Sprinkle the cumin powder, salt, and black pepper over the yogurt mixture. These spices enhance the overall flavor profile and add a subtle warmth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to your preference.

    ~1 min

    Tip: Toast the cumin seeds lightly before grinding them for a more intense flavor.
  5. 5

    Gently stir all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the yogurt watery. The aim is to have all the ingredients evenly dispersed throughout the yogurt.

    ~1 min

    Tip: Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring that everything is well incorporated.
  6. 6

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or an airtight lid. This will prevent the raita from absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator. Proper covering will also minimize the chance of the surface drying out.

    ~1 min

    Tip: Press the plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the raita to prevent a skin from forming.
  7. 7

    Refrigerate the raita for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Chilling the raita also enhances its cooling effect. The longer it chills, the more flavorful it will become.

    0
    Tip: For the best flavor, refrigerate the raita for at least an hour.
  8. 8

    Before serving, give the raita a gentle stir. This will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed. Check the consistency and add a tablespoon of water if it has thickened too much during refrigeration.

    ~1 min

    Tip: If the raita is too thick, add a splash of milk or water to thin it out.
  9. 9

    Taste the raita and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or cumin powder to suit your preference. Remember that the flavors will continue to develop as the raita sits.

    ~1 min

    Tip: A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the yogurt.
  10. 10

    Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cumin powder before serving. This adds a touch of visual appeal and enhances the aroma. The fresh herbs will also add a burst of flavor.

    ~1 min

    Tip: A swirl of olive oil adds richness and a beautiful sheen.

How Do I Know It's Ready?

Raita doesn't require cooking. It's perfectly done when the flavors are well-melded and the consistency is smooth and creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, raita can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cool as a Cucumber: Refreshing Indian Raita as much as I do! It's a wonderful dish that's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. If you try this recipe, I'd love to hear how it turned out – feel free to share your experience and any variations you tried!