Welcome to the vibrant world of Maharashtrian cuisine! Today, we’re diving into the refreshing and crunchy world of Koshimbir. This traditional salad is not only a burst of flavors but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Perfect for a hot summer day or as a side dish to your favorite meal, Koshimbir is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 3g

Ingredients

• Cucumber Koshimbir:
  • 1 Cucumber, peeled and cubed
  • 1 Tomato diced
  • ½ Onion diced/sliced
  • ½ Carrot shredded
  • ½ cup yoghurt
  • 2 tablespoons Coriander Leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 Green Chilli, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Coconut, grated
  • 2 tablespoons Roasted Peanuts, roughly crushed
  • ½ teaspoon Sugar
  • 2 teaspoons Lemon Juice
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Ghee
  • ½ teaspoon Mustard Seeds
  • 1 Dry Red Chilli
  • 1 sprig Curry Leaves

Alternatives

• Vegetables: Replace cucumber with carrots, beetroots, or tomatoes.
• Nuts: Use almonds or walnuts instead of peanuts.
• Oil: Substitute ghee with olive oil for a healthier option.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed cucumber, onions, tomatoes, yoghurt coriander, green chilli, grated coconut, and crushed peanuts.
   • Season with salt, sugar, and lemon juice. Mix well.
2. Tempering:
   • Heat ghee in a small pan on medium heat.
   • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add the dry red chilli and curry leaves. Once they crackle, pour this tempering over the salad and mix well.

Serving Ideas

• As a Side Dish: Serve Koshimbir alongside traditional Maharashtrian meals like Varan-Bhaat (dal and rice) or Puran Poli.
• As a Snack: Enjoy it as a refreshing snack on a hot day.
• With Roti: Pair it with roti or paratha for a light and healthy meal.

There you have it—a simple yet delightful recipe for Koshimbir that brings a taste of Maharashtra to your table. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a vibrant side dish, this salad is sure to impress. Happy cooking!