Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir or Veggie Yoghurt Salad
Maharashtrian Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir represents India’s delightful take on a rejuvenating and invigorating salad! Crafted with a medley of onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers, this salad combines the refreshing qualities of yogurt with a lightness that pleases the palate and soothes the stomach.
It is a perfect accompaniment to spice-laden Indian meals, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Not only does it provide a satisfying crunch, but it also bursts with flavors that are both delightful and appetizing.
Being raised in a Maharashtrian family, this dish held a special place as a staple in our household. While individuals outside Maharashtra might enjoy it as an accompaniment to rice dishes such as Pulao or Biryani, for Maharashtrians, it is a common and regular dish that pairs perfectly with our everyday sabzi-roti meals.
One of my fondest recollections of Koshimbir involves my mother lovingly packing it in our lunch boxes during my childhood years.
I remember asking my maternal grandmother, why we had Koshimbir almost every day.
And you know what?
She shared this wonderful insight with me! And it made total sense to me.
As you all know, Indian food is hot, piquant and complex combination of the spices. This Kakdi koshimbir works like magic and helps to cool down our taste buds after indulging in spicy meals.
It is like a refreshing oasis amidst the fiery heat of the food!
Indian cuisine is popular for its versatility, as it skillfully balances various tastes in every aspect of the food. Not only does it offer nutritional value, but it also takes into consideration the digestibility of the dishes when cooked and consumed together.
Ok enough about general information about this salad, its time to dive into how to make this super simple Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir.
First things first, lets take a look into the ingredients:
This Kakdi Tomato koshimbir requires:
Kakdi(Cucumber):
Cucumbers are a hydrating vegetable that helps keep the body hydrated and aids in maintaining a healthy balance of fluids. They are low in calories and rich in fiber, making them a great addition to weight loss or weight management diets. Additionally, cucumbers are packed with antioxidants and nutrients like vitamin C and K, which promote healthy skin, digestion, and overall well-being.
Choose fresh, firm cucumbers for the best taste and texture. Peel and finely chop them to achieve a delicate crunch in the koshimbir.
Tomato:
Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate, which support a healthy immune system, heart function, and cell growth. They are also packed with powerful antioxidants, such as lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and protect against oxidative damage. Additionally, tomatoes are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet that supports weight management and digestive health.
Opt for ripe and juicy tomatoes, as they add a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish. Finely chop them to evenly distribute their goodness throughout the salad.
Yoghurt
Yogurt is a nutritious dairy product that is rich in essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and B vitamins. It contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health and aid in digestion. Regular consumption of yogurt may also help strengthen the immune system, improve bone health, and promote a healthy weight.
Select thick and creamy yogurt to provide a smooth and luscious base for the koshimbir. The yogurt adds a cooling element and complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Along with these ingredients, we need seasonings like:
- Salt
- Sugar
- Cumin Powder
- Black Pepper Powder
- Cilantro or coriander
These are the main ingredients of the Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir. Following are some more ingredients but they are totally optional:
Onions: Onions add a nice little crunch to this salad and takes the taste of this koshimbir to the next level. We add them specifically during summer as onions act as coolant in your body and fights heat stroke.
When selecting onions for this dish, opt for red or white onions, depending on your preference. Red onions lend a slightly sweeter flavor, while white onions offer a sharper bite. Peel the onion and finely chop it to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
Remember, if you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the chopped onions in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the koshimbir. This reduces their pungency while retaining their crispness.
Peanut powder: Ground peanuts also add nice flavor and texture to the salad and makes it more interesting. To make peanut powder at home, roast peanuts and take out the the outer layer of the peanuts. Grind them in a mixer in few quick pulses.
If you are using the peanuts with no outer layer, you can directly roast them and grind. Please make sure the powder is coarse not very fine.
Mint leaves: Just like coriander leaves/cilantro, you can also add finely chopped mint leaves. It adds to the flavor as well as the coolant property of this salad.
How to make Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir
Once you have gathered all your ingredients, lets make our Koshimbir
In a bowl, add yoghurt.
Add sugar, salt, black pepper powder and cumin powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Allow the mixture to sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Next, add the cilantro, tomatoes, cucumber and onion. Mix everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the seasoned yogurt.
The kakdi koshimbir is ready to be served.
Easy-peasy lemon-squeezy!!
Recipe Tips
- Cooling Effect: To achieve a more cooling effect, refrigerate the chopped cucumber and tomatoes for some time before mixing them with the other ingredients. This helps maintain the refreshing temperature of the koshimbir.
- Thick Yogurt: If your yogurt is not thick, strain it through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove excess liquid and obtain a creamy consistency.
- Spice Balance: Adjust the quantity of green chili according to your preference for spiciness. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning to achieve a well-balanced flavor profile.
- Experiment with Toppings: Besides crushed peanuts, you can also try adding other toppings like grated coconut or roasted sesame seeds to enhance the texture and add a touch of uniqueness to the koshimbir.
- Serving Suggestions: Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir with Yogurt is an excellent accompaniment to various Indian dishes like Pulao, Biryani, or as a side dish with roti and sabzi. Serve it chilled to maximize the refreshing experience.
ย Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?
A: Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for regular yogurt. However, Greek yogurt is thicker and has a tangier taste, so you may need to adjust the seasoning accordingly to suit your preference.
Q: Can I skip the sugar in the recipe?
A: Absolutely! The addition of sugar is optional and can be adjusted according to your taste. It helps balance the flavors and brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Feel free to omit it or reduce the amount if you prefer a less sweet koshimbir.
Q: Can I add other vegetables or herbs to the koshimbir?
A: Certainly! Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir can be customized to your liking. You can experiment by adding grated carrots, bell peppers, or even mint leaves for added freshness. Just ensure that the flavors complement each other and maintain the overall balance of the dish.
Q: How long can I store the koshimbir?
A: Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly upon refrigeration.
Q: Can I make the koshimbir ahead of time?
A: Unfortunatey, no! The koshimbir should be made closer to serving time. Making it well in advance will make the koshimbir watery as cucumber, tomato and yoghurt tend to release juices when mixed with salt. There is trick for meal-prep though. You can prepare the yogurt base and chop the vegetables in advance. Mix everything together just before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the dish.
Q: Can I adjust the spiciness of the koshimbir?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier koshimbir, you can add finely chopped green chilies or a dash of red chili powder. Adjust the amount of spice according to your taste preferences.
Q: Is Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
A: Yes, Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir is suitable for vegetarians. However, if you follow a vegan diet, you can substitute dairy-based yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as soy or almond yogurt.
Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir or Veggie Yoghurt Salad
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- 1 cup cucumber finely chopped
- 1 cup tomato finely chopped
- 1/2 cup yoghurt
- 1/2 cup onions finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- 2 tsp cumin powder
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, add the plain yogurt.
- Add sugar, salt, black pepper powder, and cumin powder to the yogurt. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Allow the mixture to sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Next, add the finely chopped cilantro, tomato, cucumber, and onion to the yogurt mixture. Mix everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the seasoned yogurt.
- Once the ingredients are well combined, the Kakdi Tomato Koshimbir is ready to be served.
Notes
Nutrition
