Pomegranate Raita is a refreshing and tangy yogurt-based dish that perfectly balances the rich, creamy texture of yogurt with the sweet and tart flavor of pomegranate. Often served as a side dish in Indian cuisine, raita is commonly enjoyed alongside spiced dishes like biryani, curries, and grilled meats, providing a cool contrast to spicy and flavorful meals.
The base of Pomegranate Raita is made from plain yogurt, which is light and cooling, ideal for soothing the heat of spicy foods. Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which help with digestion, making raita not only delicious but also beneficial for gut health. To create the dish, the yogurt is whipped until smooth, then seasoned with a combination of spices like cumin, coriander, and a pinch of salt. A touch of black pepper or roasted cumin powder can also be added for a deeper flavor profile.
The star ingredient of Pomegranate Raita is, of course, the pomegranate seeds. Their jewel-like appearance and burst of sweet-tart flavor make them a delightful addition to the creamy yogurt, adding both texture and color. The pomegranate seeds not only enhance the visual appeal of the raita but also provide a burst of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, making this dish as nutritious as it is flavorful.
Some variations of Pomegranate Raita may also include finely chopped cucumber, which adds a refreshing crunch and extra cooling effect. Fresh herbs like mint or cilantro can be sprinkled on top for an added burst of freshness.
Pomegranate Raita is the perfect accompaniment for any Indian meal, balancing out heat with its cool and tangy taste. It’s also great as a dip for naan, or even as a snack on its own. This simple yet flavorful dish is a wonderful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine while also providing a refreshing and healthy option.
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp black salt
- salt to taste
- cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth.
- Add the cumin powder, black salt, and salt. Mix well.
- Gently fold in the pomegranate seeds.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Nutrition
Never heard of this before, had to Google it. But it’s really tasty!
Raita = yogurt, pomegranate = good! I like!
Sounds delicious! Can’t wait to try it with some spicy curry.
This is absolutely delicious! The pomegranate adds such a fresh twist to the raita.
Not so good. It was kind of bland. Maybe add some chili powder for kick? Just my opinion.
I think you should add more pomegranates. Needs more flavor!
Yogurt and pomergranate? Uh, never heard of that. Isn’t that kinda weird??
I dunno, sounds kinda gross to me. Why put fruit in yogurt? Just eat them separately, haha.
Actually, it’s a really refreshing combo! The tangy yogurt balances the sweetness of the pomegranate. You should give it a try!
Easy recipe! But I didn’t have black salt, so I just used regular salt and it was fine. Still good!
I don’t have pomegranate seeds, can I use something else like blueberries? Please reply.
Cumin? Ugh, not my thing. Too earthy flavor for me.
Love it! I made extra and used it as a dip for veggies. So tasty!
Yogurt and pomegranate? Not a fan. Who even eats this stuff?
Sounds like a weird combination. Can’t believe people eat yogurt with fruit.
I think it’s actually really tasty! Yogurt and fruit is a classic combo in many cultures. Try it before you knock it!
Yogurt with fruit is great! But I dunno about pomegranate, it looks funny. Might be picky…
Yogurt and pomegranate? Sounds weird, never tried. Is this even a real dish?
I tried this recipe, but the cumin was way too strong for my taste. Maybe less next time?
It tastes good but mine came out too watery. What did I do wrong?
I added some chopped cucumber because I thought it needed more texture, and it turned out great! Really enjoyed this!
This is great for summer, but too much yogurt makes it heavy, lol.
Lol, yeah but yogurt is healthy! Just less of it if you want it lighter. Still sounds yummy tho!
I disagree! The yogurt gives it such a nice creaminess. I think it’s perfect for a hot day!
Easy to make and yummy! My kids loved it too. Will definitely recommend to friends!
Quick and easy! Used greek yogurt and it was still delicious. Cilantro adds a nice touch.
Just made this, but I forgot the cilantro. Still turned out great, though!
I don’t even like yogurt that much, but this was okay. Not bad y’all.
This raita is so refreshing! Love the burst of pomegranate in every bite.
Is black salt really necessary? Can’t I just use regular salt?
Pomegranate seeds? Never heard of that. Just using mango next time!
Pretty simple! But I think adding honey would make it 10 times better!
I never thought of adding honey! That actually sounds delicious! I’ll try it next time.
I used Greek yogurt and added a bit of lime. Sooo good! A hit at my party!
That sounds delicious! I love Greek yogurt! Will try with lime next time!
I made this for a party and everyone loved it! I served it with biryani. Yum!
Are you sure everyone loved it? Raita seems kinda plain with just yogurt and seeds… I don’t know.
That sounds delicious! Biryani and raita are a perfect match. I’ll have to try it next time.
I tried this, but I don’t really get the combination of flavors. Yogurt with fruits?? Not my thing.
Wow! This raita is so refreshing. I love how the pomegranate adds a sweet touch. Definitely a keeper!
This raita is super refreshing! I love the burst of pomegranate seeds with the yogurt. Definitely a keeper!
Raita supposed to be spicy? This was just too plain for me.
I dunno if I like pomegranate with yogurt. Seems kinda weird.
I know what you mean! But trust me, it’s actually really refreshing. Give it a chance!
Super easy and refreshing! Perfect for summer parties. Thanks for sharing!
Took less than 10 mins to make. Perfect for summer! Love it!
Simply delicious! I added a bit of honey to it for extra sweetness. Yum!
Honey sounds like a great addition! I love sweet twist on savory dishes.
Not really my thing. The pomegranate seeds just don’t mix well with the yogurt for me. Sorry!
I totally get that! The flavors can be a bit unusual for some. Maybe try it without the seeds? Still delicious!
Yummy! Just made this and my family loved it. Will be adding this to my recipe book!
I dunno, sounds kinda weird with pomegranate and yogurt. 🤔
Glad to hear it! This really is a crowd-pleaser. 👍
Isn’t cumin powder too strong for this? I thought it would overpower the pomegranate taste…
Easy recipe! I made it for a party, and everyone loved it. Will make again for sure!
Yummy 😋
This looks so good, can’t wait to try it! 😍
Isn’t raita just yogurt with stuff? What’s so special about it? 🤔
Wait, is this supposed to be a dessert or side dish? I’m confused.
It’s more of a side dish, but it can also be enjoyed as a light dessert! Very refreshing!
Took me a while to find pomegranate seeds, but it was worth it! I’ll be making this again!
Really nice combination! I’m thinking of adding mint next time. 🌿
This is such a fresh and delicious recipe! I love pomegranate in everything. Thanks for sharing!
I didn’t have black salt, so I used regular salt. Still turned out great, but I wonder if the black salt makes it better?