How to Make Boondi Raita – A Refreshing Indian Side Dish

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Introduction: What is Boondi Raita?

Boondi Raita is a classic Indian side dish made with spiced yoghurt and crispy, fried gram flour balls known as boondi. This cooling and creamy accompaniment is a staple at Indian meals, especially during the summer months, and pairs beautifully with biryani, pulao, parathas or spicy curries.

In this detailed blog post, you will learn exactly how to make Boondi Raita at home with simple ingredients and easy steps. Whether you're preparing an Indian feast or just want a refreshing side dish, Boondi Raita is a must-have addition.

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🌿 Why You’ll Love This Boondi Raita Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare

Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free

Perfect for summer or spicy meals

Customisable spice levels

Authentic taste with British kitchen ingredients

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📋 Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Boondi Raita, you only need a handful of basic ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

Plain yoghurt (curd) – 2 cups (preferably chilled)

Salt – to taste

Roasted cumin powder – 1 tsp

Red chilli powder – ¼ tsp (adjust to taste)

Chaat masala – ½ tsp (optional for tang)

Boondi – ½ cup (readymade or homemade)

Fresh coriander leaves – 1 tbsp (finely chopped)

Optional Add-ons:

Black salt – a pinch (for authentic taste)

Mint leaves – for garnish or blended into the yoghurt

Green chillies – finely chopped (for heat)

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🥣 What is Boondi?

Boondi refers to small, round, crispy balls made from besan (gram flour), deep-fried until golden. These can be either savoury (plain or salted) or sweetened.

You can find readymade salted boondi in Indian grocery stores across the UK. Popular brands include Haldiram’s and Bikano. If you prefer homemade, scroll down for a quick guide!

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🧑‍🍳 How to Make Boondi Raita – Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Yoghurt Base

1. Take 2 cups of plain yoghurt in a mixing bowl.

2. Whisk it using a spoon or whisk until smooth and lump-free.

3. Add salt, roasted cumin powder, red chilli powder, and chaat masala.

4. Mix well to combine the spices into the yoghurt.

> 💡 Tip: You can add a splash of cold water or milk if the yoghurt is too thick.

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Step 2: Soak the Boondi (Optional but Recommended)

1. Place the boondi in a bowl of warm water for 3–4 minutes.

2. Once it softens slightly, drain and gently press to remove excess water.

> ✅ This step helps remove excess oil and gives a soft bite, rather than a crunchy texture.

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Step 3: Combine and Chill

1. Add the soaked (or plain dry) boondi into the seasoned yoghurt.

2. Mix gently.

3. Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves on top.

4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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Step 4: Serve

Serve cold as a side dish with:

Biryani or Pulao

Parathas or Poori

Dal-Chawal (Lentils with rice)

As a cooling dip for spicy starters

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🍽 Homemade Boondi Recipe (Optional)

If you want to make boondi from scratch, here’s how:

Ingredients:

Gram flour (besan) – ½ cup

Water – as needed

Salt – a pinch

Oil – for deep frying

Method:

1. Mix besan with water to make a flowing batter (like pancake consistency).

2. Heat oil in a kadhai or deep pan.

3. Use a perforated ladle (boondi jhara) and pour the batter through it into the hot oil.

4. Fry until golden and crisp.

5. Drain on paper towels.

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💡 Variations of Boondi Raita

1. Sweet & Spicy Boondi Raita – Add a little sugar or jaggery for balance.

2. Mint Boondi Raita – Add mint paste for a herby kick.

3. South Indian Style – Add curry leaves, mustard seeds, and green chilli tempering.

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🥗 Nutritional Benefits

Probiotic-rich: Thanks to yoghurt.

Cooling effect: Perfect for spicy meals.

Protein-packed: Especially when using thick curd or Greek yoghurt.

Low carb and vegetarian: Ideal for various diets.

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🛒 Where to Buy Boondi in the UK?

You can easily find boondi at local Indian supermarkets or online grocery platforms like:

Spices of India

Patel Brothers UK

Asda World Foods aisle

Amazon UK (search "Haldiram Boondi")

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❄️ Storage Tips

Keep the prepared raita refrigerated and consume within 24 hours.

Do not freeze.

Avoid adding boondi too early if storing for later, as it may become too soggy.

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🌍 Cultural Significance

Boondi Raita is more than just a dish – it’s a beloved part of Indian meals, especially in North India. It adds a cooling, creamy contrast to fiery main dishes and is often served during festive occasions, weddings, and family gatherings.

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📝 Recipe Card – Quick Summary

Ingredient Quantity

Yoghurt 2 cups

Salt To taste

Roasted cumin powder 1 tsp

Red chilli powder ¼ tsp

Chaat masala ½ tsp (optional)

Boondi ½ cup

Coriander 1 tbsp (chopped)

Instructions:

1. Whisk yoghurt with spices.

2. Soak and drain boondi (optional).

3. Mix and chill.

4. Garnish and serve cold.

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🙋‍♂️ FAQs About Boondi Raita

Q1. Can I use Greek yoghurt for Boondi Raita?

Yes, but dilute it slightly with water or milk to get the right consistency.

Q2. How to make raita without boondi?

You can use cucumber, onion, or grated carrot as alternatives.

Q3. Can I make Boondi Raita vegan?

Use coconut or almond yoghurt instead of dairy yoghurt. The taste will differ slightly.

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✅ Final Thoughts

Boondi Raita is the perfect blend of coolness, spice, and texture – a side dish that complements any Indian meal. With this simple recipe, you can whip it up in minutes using ingredients available in most British supermarkets or online Indian stores.

Make it today and 

enjoy a spoonful of tradition with every bite!

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.