Kakdi and Gaajar Raita (Cucumber and Carrot Yogurt Sauce)

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When I was a child, my parents almost always made raita and served it with dinner.  "Raita" is a condiment made with yogurt, spices, and herbs.  My parents served it with dinner because it is a way to add more raw vegetables into a meal, and because it nicely balances a hot and spicy dish.

There are many varieties of raita--the yogurt may be mixed with vegetables, fruits, or other items.  If you are familiar with Greek food, raita is very similar to tzatziki sauce.  This is my recipe for a very simple vegetable raita; but feel free to try your own combinations and variations!

Start by peeling and finely chopping the cucumber; finely chopping the carrots; and finely mincing the mint leaves.

Combine all the ingredients into a bowl.  Then add the yogurt to the bowl.

Mix the yogurt and vegetables until combined.  Add the cumin and the salt and mix again to combine.

Keep covered and refrigerated until ready to use!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced cucumbers
• 1 tbsp minced mint leaves (optional)
• 6 oz plain nonfat yogurt
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt (may add more to taste)

Recipe:

1. Peel and finely dice the cucumbers; finely dice the carrots; and finely mince the mint leaves.
2. Place cucumbers, carrots, and mint leaves to a bowl.
3. Add yogurt to the bowl and mix to combine.
4. Add cumin and salt to the mixture and mix to combine again.
5. Cover and refrigerate.

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