Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably whole-milk yogurt)
• 1 medium cucumber, peeled and grated
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• A pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili powder (optional, for added heat)
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped
• A few mint leaves, chopped (optional, for extra freshness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumber:

• Peel the cucumber and grate it using a fine grater or a box grater. You can also finely chop it if you prefer a chunkier texture.

2. Squeeze Out Excess Moisture:

• After grating the cucumber, squeeze out any excess moisture from it using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This helps prevent the raita from becoming too watery.

3. Mix Yogurt and Cucumber:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt and grated cucumber.

4. Season the Raita:

• Add cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the yogurt and cucumber mixture.

5. Add Fresh Herbs:

• Add the chopped fresh cilantro and mint leaves (if using) to the raita for added flavor and freshness.

6. Mix Well:

• Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.

7. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate the cucumber raita for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and to serve it chilled.

8. Enjoy:

• Serve your homemade yogurt with cucumbers as a delightful side dish alongside spicy Indian dishes or enjoy it as a cooling dip.

Cucumber raita is a versatile and refreshing condiment that complements a wide range of dishes. It's particularly popular in Indian cuisine and offers a cooling contrast to spicy curries and rice dishes.