The hotdog has ketchup, the PBJ which is peanut butter jelly are some of the most iconic food and their accompaniments. What are accompaniments? In the culinary world, food companies are dishes served on the side or with the main dish to produce a new flavor or enhance the flavor the original taste of the dish to different heights or new possibilities.

 

The indian cuisine decked with an overflow of dishes all unique in their own right from all corners of the nation has quite an abundant of dishes and unique accompaniments of their own however when it comes to the icons or the dishes that define food accompaniments no  recipe come close to the versatility and popularity of the raita recipe.

 

Why is the raita so well loved?

 

The raita as an accompaniment is considered king as you can find its presence not just in India but also in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepali. The presence of raita recipes are well marked in several cuisines. Often served alongside biryanis, pulao, bread and several other dishes belonging in the Indian sub continent especially in the cuisines of the north and the south.

 

Variants of the raita 

 

The first on the list is the original raita, which is prepared using curd, veggies, along with spice powders and herbs. The original raita taste great, is quick to make and is a great accompaniment to pulaos or biryanis.

 

Boondi raita made of boondi which is a crispy snack served in the cuisines of the north is used as an ingredient in this variant of the raita. Very tasty when paired as an accompainets or you can have it on its own.

 

Mint chutney or mint raita : also known as dahi chutney, kebab raita or mint raita etc. the name varies from country to country and is often a star accompaniment in indian restaurants abroad and at home.

 

Great during summer months due to the natural cooling properties of cucumbers which are added into the raita alongside the yogurt, making it extremely comforting when the heat kicks. An addition of mint leaves enhances the cooling properties in the raita.

 

Ginger mint raita like the name suggests is made with ginger and mint and possess a unique flavor which when combined with certain dishes taste great.

 

Though it may raise some eyebrows, pineapple as an addition to your normal raita recipe makes for a unique and exhilarating combo partly  due  to the natural sour taste of the pineapple mixed with the bland tasting yogurt leaving you wanting more.

 

Aloo ka raita is another classic, made with the same ingredients used in a normal raita but with the addition of potatoes.