Beetroot Raita (Beet Raita, Chukandar Ka Raita) is an Indian accompaniment made using yogurt, beet, and a few spices. This raita tastes great with any Indian food and comes together in under20 minutes using simple ingredients. Here is how to make it.
Heat 2 cups of water in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the water comes to a boil, add the beetroots. Cover the pan with a lid and cook until they are softened (8-10 minutes).
Note – You can also cook the beetroot in a traditional pressure cooker or instant pot. I am sharing the methods in notes, just in case you want to check.
Drain the water and add the beetroot to a blender along with ¼ cup of cold water. Blend to make a smooth puree.
Tip – You can use the leftover water from boiling the beets to make curries or knead the dough.
Make The Raita
Add yogurt to a bowl and whisk it until it is smooth and creamy.
Add the beetroot puree, salt, cumin powder, and green chilies to the bowl and mix well.
Note – You can add some water to thin the raita if it is thick for your liking. The ideal consistency should be like that of custard.
Temper The Raita
Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and curry leaves and let them crackle for 4-5 seconds.
Add dry red chilies and lightly crushed peanuts to the skillet and fry until they are crispy and golden brown in color.
Pour the tempering over the beet raita and stir well. Serve chilled.
Tip – Save some tempering for garnishing.
Video
Notes
Be careful while handling the beets. They leave permanent marks on the cloths and color the surfaces that come into their contact. Use an old chopping board and knife and wear an apron.