Boondi Raita is a delightful yogurt-based side dish that complements Indian meals beautifully. The crispiness of boondi combined with creamy yogurt and aromatic spices makes it a must-have with biryanis, pulaos, or parathas. It’s quick to prepare and adds a refreshing touch to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup yogurt (dahi)
- 1/2 cup boondi (available in Indian grocery stores)
- 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder (jeera powder)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder (kali mirch)
- 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
- Black salt, to taste (kala namak)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic paste (optional)
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish
- Water, to adjust consistency
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yogurt:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- If the yogurt is too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Soak the Boondi:
- If you prefer soft boondi, soak it in warm water for about 5 minutes. After soaking, drain and gently squeeze out excess water from the boondi. For a crunchier texture, skip this step.
- Mix the Raita:
- Add the prepared boondi to the whisked yogurt. Mix gently to combine.
- Add Seasoning:
- Stir in the roasted cumin powder, black pepper powder, chaat masala, black salt, and garlic paste (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve:
- Serve the boondi raita chilled as a refreshing side dish with biryani, pulao, or any Indian meal.
Tips for Perfect Boondi Raita:
- Consistency: Adjust the yogurt consistency by adding water little by little. The raita should be creamy but not too thick.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of sugar to balance the tartness of the yogurt, if desired.
- Crunchy Boondi: If you prefer a crunchy texture, add the boondi just before serving.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve boondi raita in a clear glass bowl to showcase the beautiful colors.
- Top with a few whole boondi and a sprinkle of cumin powder for a visual appeal.
Nutrition Chart for Boondi Raita (per serving)
- Calories —————— 150 kcal
• Total Fat —————— 8 g
• Cholesterol ————— 15 mg
• Sodium ——————– 450 mg
• Total Carbohydrates — 15 g
• Protein ——————— 6 g
• Sugar ———————— 5 g
• Fiber ———————— 1 g
Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used and cooking methods.
