Raita

Serves 4 to 6

Raita is one of my favorite Indian condiments.  It is easy to make, and goes well with many dishes, both Indian and non-Indian, and fancies up a plain piece of chicken, smoked salmon, or some plain rice. This particular recipe is my one I make regularly, but it is slightly different from a traditional Indian Raita in that it does not include the addition of a cup of milk and some chopped garlic.  Feel free to add these in if you are interested in a thinner preparation.

Ingredients
Two cups of Greek yogurt, 2% fat
One large cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated or chopped fine
Two tablespoons of cumin powder
Cayenne pepper or paprika to taste

Instructions
Place yogurt in a bowl and stir vigorously until the yogurt is creamy throughout
Add grated or chopped cucumber, and cumin powder.  Stir.
Set aside for ten to 30 minutes (to bring the elements together)
Top with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or paprika