Kumaoni raita
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A sharp, yellow raita of grated hill cucumber, curd and ground mustard seeds that tingles the nose.
Region: Kumaon, UttarakhandOccasion: Everyday meals, weddings and festivalsTime: 20 min + 1 hour restingServes: 4Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 large hill cucumber (pahadi kakdi), peeled and grated
- 2 cups thick curd
- 1½ tsp yellow or black mustard seeds, finely ground
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1–2 green chillies, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- Chopped coriander
Method
- Squeeze the water out of the grated cucumber.
- Whisk the curd until smooth.
- Add the cucumber, ground mustard, turmeric, green chillies and salt.
- Mix well and leave it covered for an hour so the mustard releases its pungency.
- Garnish with coriander and serve cool.
History
Large hill cucumbers grow on the roofs and terraces of Kumaoni homes, and this raita is a common way to use the harvest.
Significance
Kumaoni raita is served at feasts and weddings and is one of the best-known dishes of the region.