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Indian Cucumber Salad

Serves 4 to 6 Salad vegetarian, Salads

Indian Cucumber Salad

Indian Cucumber Salad, known in some regions simply as 'Kheera Raita,' finds its place in the everyday meals across Indian households. This dish is often served as a cooling accompaniment to spicy curries or biryanis, offering a refreshing contrast. Traditionally, it is part of a larger spread during lunches or dinners, especially in the summer months when cucumbers are at their peak.

The salad boasts a creamy texture from the yogurt, which is delicately infused with the subtle heat of garlic and the bright, herbaceous notes of dill. The cucumbers provide a crisp, hydrating crunch, while the salt is meticulously balanced by hand to enhance the flavors without overwhelming them. Each spoonful is a refreshing respite, making it a cherished component of any meal.

Ingredients

  • 2cucumbers
  • 200 gyogurt
  • 1 clovegarlic
  • dill — chopped
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by washing the 2 cucumbers thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Peel the cucumbers if the skin is tough, otherwise leave it on for extra texture. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference, and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a separate small bowl, combine 200 g of yogurt with a finely minced clove of garlic. The garlic should be minced finely enough that it blends smoothly into the yogurt, imparting its flavor without leaving large chunks. Stir in a generous pinch of fine sea salt and a handful of chopped dill, adjusting the amount to your taste preference.
  3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the sliced cucumbers in the mixing bowl. Drizzle a tablespoon of your preferred oil over the salad; olive oil or mustard oil can add a unique flavor. Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to introduce a tangy element, balancing the creaminess of the yogurt.
  4. Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss the cucumbers with the yogurt dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the cucumber slices to remain intact and not become mushy. Ensure each piece is well-coated with the dressing.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or dill to suit your palate. The flavors should be bright and refreshing, with the dill providing a fragrant herbal note.
  6. Serve the Indian Cucumber Salad immediately, garnished with a few extra sprigs of dill if desired. It pairs beautifully with warm bread, offering a cooling contrast to spicy dishes. Enjoy this dish as part of a shared meal, embodying the communal spirit of Indian home cooking.
Cover of Authentic Indian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Indian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Indian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Indian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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