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indian salad

Traditional Indian Salad (Kachumber)

A refreshing, crunchy Indian salad featuring cabbage, cucumber, carrots and green peas tossed with zesty lime juice and aromatic chaat masala. This versatile side dish perfectly complements spicy curries or can stand alone as a light meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Green Salads
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 72
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base Salad
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage finely shredded
  • 1 cup carrots julienned
  • 1/2 cup green peas fresh or thawed frozen
  • 1 medium cucumber diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed (about 1 large lime)
  • 1 teaspoon chaat masala
  • salt to taste
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 small tomato diced
  • 1 green chili finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts crushed

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Vegetable peeler
  • Measuring spoons
  • Citrus juicer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prepare all vegetables by washing thoroughly. Shred the cabbage, julienne the carrots, and dice the cucumber into small, uniform pieces.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, green peas, and diced cucumber.
  3. If using optional ingredients like red onion, tomato, or green chili, add them to the bowl.
  4. Add the freshly chopped cilantro and sprinkle the chaat masala evenly over the vegetables.
  5. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad ingredients and add salt to taste.
  6. Gently toss all ingredients together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the lime juice and spices.
  7. Let the salad rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving.

Notes

  • For best results, prepare this salad just before serving to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
  • Chaat masala is available at Indian grocery stores or in the international section of many supermarkets.
  • For a protein boost, add chickpeas or diced paneer cheese.
  • If you're preparing ahead, keep the vegetables and dressing separate until ready to serve.