Raitas

Originating in northern India, raita always consists of a yogurt base to which grated or finely chopped vegetables are added. In southern India, pachadi is flavoured with whole spices such as mustard and cumin seeds, curry leaves and chillies, which are added to a small quantity of hot oil and incorporated into the yogurt mixture. In northern India the spicing is different, comprising a fiery combination of crushed black pepper, roasted cumin seeds and chilli powder. In the state of Maharashtra in western India the flavourings are different again, and koshimbir generally contains lemon juice, fresh green chillies, chopped onion and coriander (cilantro) leaves. Raita is also occasionally made with fruit, such as banana, in place of the cucumber.