Refreshing Kachumber Salad: A Traditional Indian Dish

Ingredients

  • 2 medium-sized cucumbers
  • 2 medium-sized tomatoes
  • 1 medium-sized onion
  • 2 green chilies
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon chaat masala
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro (coriander)
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers, tomatoes, and green chilies thoroughly under running water.
  2. Peel the cucumbers and onions.
  3. Finely chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and green chilies.
  4. Take a large bowl and add the chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and green chilies.
  5. Sprinkle cumin powder, chaat masala, and salt over the chopped vegetables.
  6. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture.
  7. Mix everything well so that the spices and lemon juice are evenly distributed.
  8. Garnish the Kachumber with finely chopped cilantro.
  9. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving for the flavors to mingle.

Tools for making

  • Cutting Board - To chop the vegetables on.
  • Knife - To cut the cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and green chilies.
  • Large Bowl - To mix all the ingredients together.
  • Spoon - To mix the spices, lemon juice, and vegetables in the bowl.

Recipe variations

  • Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangier flavor.
  • Include diced bell peppers for added crunch and color.
  • Replace green chilies with red chilies for a spicier version.
  • Add a pinch of roasted cumin seeds for a smoky flavor.
  • Include finely chopped mint leaves for a refreshing twist.
  • Add a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
  • Replace tomatoes with pomegranate seeds for a unique twist.
  • Include grated carrots for added texture and sweetness.
  • Add diced avocado for a creamy element.
  • Replace cilantro with fresh parsley or basil for a different herb flavor.

Recipe overview

Kachumber is a simple yet refreshing Indian salad that's as flavorful as it is colorful. This salad is a medley of freshly chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and green chilies, tossed together with a blend of Indian spices. The tang of chaat masala and lemon juice, paired with the freshness of cilantro, adds a delightful twist to this classic salad. Kachumber is a versatile side dish that pairs well with almost any Indian meal. It's also a great healthy snack option. The preparation is easy and quick, making it perfect for those busy weekdays. Let's dive into the recipe!

Common questions

  1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe? Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding or substituting other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or carrots.
  2. How spicy is this recipe? The spiciness of the Kachumber can be adjusted by adding or reducing the amount of green chilies according to your preference. Feel free to add more or omit them completely if you prefer a milder flavor.
  3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Kachumber is best served fresh to retain its crunchy texture. However, you can prepare the vegetables in advance and mix them with the spices and lemon juice just before serving.
  4. Can I store leftovers? It is not recommended to store leftovers as the vegetables tend to release moisture and lose their freshness. It is best to consume Kachumber immediately after preparing.
  5. What can I serve Kachumber with? Kachumber is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish with Indian meals, alongside grilled meats or kebabs, or as a topping for wraps and sandwiches.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Knife - For chopping the vegetables into small pieces.
  • Cutting board - To provide a stable surface for chopping the vegetables.
  • Large bowl - To mix and serve the Kachumber.
  • Spoon - To mix the ingredients and serve the Kachumber.
  • Citrus juicer - To extract the juice from the lemon.

Origin stories

Kachumber, a popular Indian salad, has an intriguing name that is as vibrant as its ingredients. The term "kachumber" is derived from the Hindi word "kachumbar", which can be translated as "cucumber". However, this refreshing salad is not just about cucumbers. It beautifully embodies the philosophy of Indian cuisine, which values the balance of flavors - the sweetness of tomatoes, the punch of onions, the freshness of cucumbers, and the heat of green chilies all come together in this dish. The spices, lemon juice, and cilantro further enliven the salad, just as the diverse cultures of India add to its vibrant ethos. Interestingly, similar salads are found in various cuisines across the globe with minor tweaks, yet kachumber retains its unique Indian identity with its use of chaat masala and cumin powder - a testament to India's knack for taking global influences and making them its own.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.