Mint Raita

Raitas, or raytas, are India’s version of a salsa or salad that are served as cooling counterpoints to hot and spicy Indian foods. They are yogurt based and contain vegetables that are either raw or cooked, and low fat or whole yogurt. If using whole fat yogurt thin with a little water to produce a smooth texture. Because of the coolness of the yogurt, they are served during hot weather only. Serve with crudities or pieces of Indian bread called naan as an exotic appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

• 1 tablespoon minced onion

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala, commercial or see recipe above

• 1/2 teaspoon minced serrano chile

• Pinch of sugar

• Salt to taste

Instructions

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl, cover and let sit at room temperature for an hour to blend the flavors. Refrigerate until ready to use.