Boondi Raita
Yogurt with crisp besan boondi pearls, roasted cumin, and a touch of red chili — soft pearls absorb the yogurt for a comforting texture.
For 2 servings
1 step.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Whisk the plain yogurt in a bowl until completely smooth.
- b.Stir in the roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt.
- c.Fold in the boondi pearls and chopped cilantro.
- d.Allow the mixture to rest for 5 minutes so the boondi absorbs the yogurt and softens.
TIPIf the raita becomes too thick after resting, stir in a tablespoon of chilled water to reach your preferred consistency.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a crunchier raita, add the dry boondi directly to the yogurt 5-10 minutes before serving, skipping the soaking step.
- 2Always use chilled yogurt and water for the most refreshing taste.
- 3For a richer flavor, make your own roasted cumin powder by toasting cumin seeds in a dry pan until fragrant, then grinding them.
- 4If your yogurt is very thick, you may need a little more water to achieve a pourable consistency.
- 5Boondi raita is best served fresh. Storing it for too long will make the boondi overly soggy and mushy.
Adapt it for your goals.
Mint Boondi Raita
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the coriander for a cool, refreshing twist.
Vegetable Boondi RaitaVegetable Boondi Raita
Add 2-3 tablespoons of finely chopped onion and tomato to the yogurt base for extra crunch and flavor.
Tadka Boondi RaitaTadka Boondi Raita
For an enhanced flavor, prepare a tempering (tadka) of 1 tsp oil, a pinch of asafoetida (hing), and a few curry leaves. Pour it over the finished raita before serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Promotes Gut Health
The yogurt base is a natural probiotic, which helps in maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria, aiding digestion and improving overall gut health.
Cooling and Hydrating
Yogurt has a natural cooling effect on the body, making this raita an excellent accompaniment to spicy meals and a refreshing dish during hot weather.
Rich in Calcium and Protein
Made from yogurt, this raita is a good source of calcium for strong bones and teeth, as well as protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Boondi Raita (about 1/2 cup or 90g) contains approximately 80-100 calories, depending on whether you use full-fat or low-fat yogurt.