Pronunciation: [ɹˈe͡ɪtə] (IPA) 
Raita is an Indian condiment made from yogurt, cucumbers, and spices. The correct spelling of this word is /raɪtə/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced with two syllables, with stress on the first syllable "rai". The "t" in "raita" is an unaspirated voiceless dental stop, which is a sound made by blocking the airflow through the mouth with the tongue against the teeth. This sound is similar to the "t" in the word "sting".
Raita is a traditional and popular Indian side dish or condiment that is typically served alongside main courses. It is made with yogurt as the base ingredient and is often flavored with various spices and herbs. Raita is known for its cooling and refreshing properties, making it a perfect accompaniment to spicy curries and dishes.
The basic preparation of raita involves whisking yogurt until smooth and then adding a variety of ingredients such as finely chopped vegetables like cucumbers, onions, or tomatoes. These vegetables impart a crunchy texture to the raita while adding their unique flavors. Additionally, aromatic herbs like mint or cilantro are commonly added to provide a fresh and fragrant taste.
To enhance the flavor further, raita is seasoned with spices such as cumin, coriander, black salt, or chaat masala. These spices not only add depth to the dish but also aid in digestion. Raita can be customized according to personal preferences, with some variations including ingredients like grated carrots, roasted cumin powder, crushed garlic, or even fruits like pomegranate seeds.
Raita serves various purposes in Indian cuisine. It acts as a palate cleanser between bites of spicy food, provides a cooling relief to counter the heat of fiery dishes, and adds a creamy and tangy texture to complement the flavors of other dishes. It can be enjoyed as a dip with snacks, a side dish with biryanis or pulao (rice dishes), or as a condiment in wraps and sandwiches.
Overall, raita is a versatile and refreshing yogurt-based dish that adds a delightful twist to any meal, giving a perfect balance of flavors and a cooling effect to the taste buds.
The word "raita" comes from Hindi, which is derived from the Sanskrit word "rajika" meaning "a mixture of curds, herbs, and spices". In Hindi, the word evolved to "raita", which refers to a yogurt-based condiment or side dish commonly found in Indian cuisine.
