Spinach Raita

 I prefer raitas to go along with my rotis, especially during my lonely lunches on weekdays. Raitas are usually simple, quick, convenient and nutritious. What more you can ask for in a side dish? I have used low fat yogurt and frozen spinach in this version which can be put together in around 10 minutes.

Ingredients:
5 oz / 150 gm frozen spinach
2 cups yogurt (fat-free will do.)
2 tsp. oil
1 tsp. mustard seeds
4 to 6 dried red chiilies (Adjust according to spice preference.)
a sprig of curry leaves
2 pinches of asafoetida powder 

The following are the simple steps for this healthy and tasty raita.
* Thaw and lightly cook spinach in the microwave without adding extra water. After spinach is done, drain any extra water if present.
* Meanwhile, lightly beat the yogurt using a whisk or a fork.
Now for the tadka part in microwave. Heat oil and mustard seeds in a microwave safe bowl. When the seeds start to crackle and pop, add chillies, curry leaves and asafoetida. Heat for a few seconds more.
* Add the cooked spinach, tadka and salt to the yogurt. Mix well and serve.

Note: 
If substituting fresh spinach, wash and roughly chop. Sprinkle a little water and cook in the microwave. If using stove top, you can first do the tadka in a pan and saute chopped spinach till done.

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