Pahadi Palak Dahi Tikhari Raita
Ingredients
| Prep & Cook Time | Type | Flavour |
| 15 minutes + 15 minutes | North Indian | Tangy, Spicy, Fresh |
| Course | Dietary Pattern | Serving |
| Side Dish, Raita, Accompaniment | Vegetarian, Lacto-veg, Gluten-free |
4
|
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For the Raita
- 1.5 cups Spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup Thick curd (yogurt), whisked
- 1.5 teaspoons Mustard oil
- 0.5 teaspoon Mustard seeds
- 0.5 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 0.5 teaspoon Jakhiya (optional)
- 5 cloves Garlic, finely chopped
- 2 Green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 small Onion, finely chopped
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 0.25 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Coriander powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Red chili powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Roasted cumin powder
- Black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
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For the Pudina Paste
- 2 tablespoons Fresh mint leaves
- 1 Green chili
- Salt, a pinch
Steps
Prepare the Pudina Paste
- Coarsely grind the mint leaves, green chili, and a pinch of salt into a rough paste.
- Set aside until needed.
Cook the Spinach Mixture
- Heat the mustard oil until it just begins to smoke, then reduce the heat.
- Add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and jakhiya. Let them crackle.
- Add the garlic and green chilies and sauté until lightly crisp and aromatic.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and lightly golden.
- Stir in the hing.
- Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, roasted cumin powder, black pepper, and salt. Sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until the moisture evaporates and the spinach becomes tender without turning mushy.
Finish the Raita
- Turn off the heat and allow the spinach mixture to cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add the whisked curd and mix until well combined and creamy.
- Fold in the prepared pudina paste.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if required.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pahadi Palak Dahi Tikhari Raita is a traditional Himalayan region yogurt preparation featuring sautéed spinach, aromatic tempering, and a fresh mint paste. The combination of earthy greens, tangy curd, and bold mountain flavors makes it an excellent accompaniment to everyday meals.