Kaddu Ka Raita

Kaddu Ka Raita is a refreshing and nutritious Indian side dish made with tender pumpkin and creamy yogurt, delicately spiced with cumin and mustard powder. It perfectly complements spicy meals and adds a cooling balance to your plate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• ½ cup pumpkin (kaddu)
• 2 cups curd (yogurt)

Spices and Seasoning:

• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp rock salt (sendha namak)
• ½ tsp mustard powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pumpkin (Kaddu)

   • Wash, peel, and grate the pumpkin finely.
   • In a small pan, add ¼ cup of water and the grated pumpkin.
   • Cook on low flame until the pumpkin becomes soft and the water evaporates.
   • Once done, remove from the gas and set aside to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Curd Base

   • In a mixing bowl, add curd (yogurt) and beat it well until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the following spices to the beaten curd:
     • Salt
     • Rock salt
     • Mustard powder
     • Cumin powder
   • Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors.

3. Combine Pumpkin with Curd Mixture

   • Once the cooked pumpkin has cooled, add it to the spiced curd mixture.
   • Stir gently until the pumpkin is evenly mixed with the curd.
   • Adjust salt or spices as per taste.

4. Chill and Serve

   • Refrigerate the prepared raita for 15–20 minutes before serving.
   • Serve Kaddu Ka Raita chilled as a side dish with parathas, pulao, or any Indian meal.

Serving Suggestion

• Garnish with a pinch of cumin powder or fresh coriander leaves for added aroma.
• This raita pairs wonderfully with spicy curries or biryani to cool the palate.