Beetroot Raita || Indian Side Dish || Recipe

Beetroot Raita is a popular Indian side dish or condiment made with yogurt (curd) and grated or cooked beetroot. Raita is a common accompaniment in Indian cuisine and is typically served with main dishes like biryani, pulao, or curries to provide a cooling and refreshing element to balance the spiciness of the meal.

 

 

 

To prepare Beetroot Raita, the beetroot is either boiled or grated and then mixed with whisked yogurt. The yogurt is seasoned with salt and spices such as roasted cumin powder, black salt, and chaat masala for added flavor. Sometimes, a tadka (tempering) of mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves is added to enhance the taste. Chopped coriander leaves or mint leaves are often sprinkled on top as a garnish.

 

The result is a vibrant pinkish-red raita with a slightly sweet and earthy flavor from the beetroot, balanced by the tanginess of the yogurt. It provides a refreshing and cooling contrast to the spicy dishes it is served with and adds a delightful texture to the overall meal. Beetroot Raita is not only delicious but also nutritious as it contains the health benefits of beetroot and yogurt, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and probiotics.

 

 Here's a simple recipe for Beetroot Raita:

 

Ingredients:

 

1 medium-sized beetroot, boiled or grated

1 cup plain yogurt (curd)

1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder

1/2 teaspoon chaat masala

1/4 teaspoon black salt

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves or mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Optional tempering (tadka):

 

1 teaspoon oil (such as vegetable or mustard oil)

1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

A few curry leaves

Instructions:

 

If using raw beetroot, peel and grate it. Alternatively, you can boil the beetroot until it is tender, then peel and grate it.

 

In a bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth.

 

Add the grated or cooked beetroot to the yogurt and mix well.

 

Add roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, black salt, and salt to the yogurt and beetroot mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.

 

If you prefer a tempered raita, heat oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter and then add curry leaves. Cook for a few seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Pour this tempering over the raita and mix gently.

 

Garnish the raita with chopped fresh coriander leaves or mint leaves.

 

Refrigerate the raita for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

 

Serve chilled Beetroot Raita as a side dish or condiment with your favorite Indian meals.

 

Enjoy your homemade Beetroot Raita!

Conclusion :

In conclusion, Beet Root Raita is a refreshing and vibrant side dish that adds a burst of color and flavor to any meal. With its cool, creamy yogurt base and the earthy sweetness of beets, it's a delightful and nutritious accompaniment that enhances the dining experience. Enjoy its unique taste and health benefits as part of your culinary repertoire.