Raita

Ingredients:

• 2 Cups Plain Yogurt
• 1/2 Cup Grated Cucumber (Squeeze Out Excess Water)
• 1/4 Cup Chopped Tomatoes
• 2 Tbsp Finely Chopped Coriander Leaves
• 1/2 Tsp Roasted Cumin Powder
• 1/2 Tsp Chaat Masala
• Salt To Taste
• A Few Mint Leaves For Garnish (Optional)

Instructions:

1. In A Mixing Bowl, Combine Yogurt, Grated Cucumber, Chopped Tomatoes, And Coriander Leaves.
2. Add Roasted Cumin Powder, Chaat Masala, And Salt. Mix Well.
3. Garnish With Mint Leaves If Desired.
4. Chill In The Refrigerator Before Serving.
5. Serve Chilled As A Side Dish With Meals.

Curd-Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 Cups Cooked Rice (Preferably Slightly Cooled)
• 1 Cup Plain Yogurt (Curd)
• 1/2 Tsp Mustard Seeds
• 1/2 Tsp Cumin Seeds
• 1-2 Green Chilies (Finely Chopped, Adjust To Taste)
• 1/4 Cup Chopped Coriander Leaves
• 2 Tbsp Chopped Curry Leaves
• 1 Tbsp Finely Chopped Ginger
• 1 Tbsp Oil Or Ghee
• 1/4 Cup Chopped Onions (Optional)
• 1/4 Cup Grated Carrot (Optional)
• Salt To Taste
• A Pinch Of Asafoetida (Hing) (Optional)

Instructions:

1. If Using Freshly Cooked Rice, Allow It To Cool To Room Temperature. This Helps In Mixing It Well With Yogurt. 2. In A Large Bowl, Mix The Cooled Rice With Plain Yogurt. Stir Well Until The Rice Is Evenly Coated With Yogurt. Add Salt To Taste. 3. Heat Oil Or Ghee In A Small Pan Over Medium Heat. 4. Add Mustard Seeds And Cumin Seeds. Allow Them To Splutter. 5. Add Chopped Green Chilies, Ginger, And Curry Leaves. Sauté For A Minute Until Fragrant. 6. If Using, Add Chopped Onions And Grated Carrot. Sauté Until Onions Are Translucent And Carrots Are Slightly Softened. 7. Add A Pinch Of Asafoetida (Hing) If Using. 8. Add The Prepared Tempering To The Yogurt Rice Mixture. Stir Well To Combine. 9. Garnish With Chopped Coriander Leaves. 10. Chill In The Refrigerator For About 30 Minutes Before Serving If You Prefer It Cold. It Can Also Be Served At Room Temperature. 11. Enjoy The Curd Rice As A Refreshing Side Dish Or Light Meal. It Pairs Well With Pickles And Papadam.