Raita, a staple side dish in Indian cuisine, is often considered a cooling accompaniment. However, with a little creativity, it can also become a warming addition to your winter meals. Using seasonal ingredients, warming spices, and techniques that align with the winter season, here are eight Indian raita recipes to savor during colder months.


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1. Beetroot and Ginger Raita
Ingredients:


Grated beetroot (1 cup)
Yogurt (2 cups)
Grated ginger (1 tsp)
Black salt (to taste)
Roasted cumin powder (1 tsp)
Honey (1 tsp)
Why it’s warming:
The earthy beetroot and warming ginger provide a boost to your circulation, while cumin adds digestive heat.



2. Roasted Carrot and Garlic Raita
Ingredients:


Roasted carrots (1 cup, chopped)
Yogurt (2 cups)
Garlic (2-3 cloves, roasted and mashed)
Crushed black pepper (1 tsp)
Salt (to taste)
Why it’s warming:
Roasting carrots and garlic deepens their flavors, making this raita hearty and perfect for a cozy winter meal.


3. Methi (Fenugreek) Raita
Ingredients:


Fresh methi leaves (1 cup, finely chopped)
Yogurt (2 cups)
Mustard seeds (1 tsp)
Hing (asafoetida, a pinch)
Green chili (optional, finely chopped)
Why it’s warming:
Fenugreek leaves are known for their warming properties and immunity-boosting benefits, ideal for winter.



4. Spinach and Mustard Raita
Ingredients:


Blanched and chopped spinach (1 cup)
Yogurt (2 cups)
Mustard powder (1 tsp)
Salt (to taste)
A pinch of turmeric
Why it’s warming:
Mustard powder adds a spicy kick that is perfect for warding off the winter chill.


5. Pumpkin and Nutmeg Raita
Ingredients:


Steamed and mashed pumpkin (1 cup)
Yogurt (2 cups)
Nutmeg powder (a pinch)
Cinnamon powder (a pinch)
Salt (to taste)
Why it’s warming:
The sweet and earthy pumpkin combined with warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon makes this a winter treat.


6. Smoked Eggplant Raita
Ingredients:


Roasted and mashed eggplant (1 cup)
Yogurt (2 cups)
Garlic (2 cloves, roasted)
Salt (to taste)
Paprika or red chili powder (a pinch)
Why it’s warming:
The smoky flavor of roasted eggplant paired with garlic creates a robust and warming profile.



7. Roasted Tomato and Basil Raita
Ingredients:


Roasted tomatoes (1 cup, finely chopped)
Yogurt (2 cups)
Fresh basil (a handful, chopped)
Salt (to taste)
Black pepper (1 tsp)
Why it’s warming:
Roasted tomatoes and basil offer a rich flavor and warmth, reminiscent of comforting winter soups.


8. Turmeric and Black Pepper Raita
Ingredients:


Yogurt (2 cups)
Turmeric powder (1/2 tsp)
Crushed black pepper (1 tsp)
Honey (1 tsp)
Salt (to taste)
Why it’s warming:
Turmeric and black pepper are a powerful combination known for their anti-inflammatory and warming effects.


Tips for Making Winter Raitas:


Use Full-Fat Yogurt: It provides warmth and keeps you satiated in colder weather.
Incorporate Warming Spices: Spices like ginger, garlic, mustard, and turmeric add heat to your raita.
Add Seasonal Vegetables: Winter veggies like carrots, pumpkin, and spinach are nutritious and ideal for the season.