Yogurt Raita with Shallots

From Sarah Voiland, 2011

Goes very nicely with rice and curried lentils. Raita is a typical Indian condiment. This is my own version. 

1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 tsp salt or to taste
1 tsp sugar or to taste
1/8 tsp cumin powder
1 shallot clove, diced (you can also use onion)
Other optional ingredients as available: diced tomato, cucumber, cilantro, apple, or your inspiration.

Dice shallot and put in bowl with hot water for a minute or so to cut oniony-ness (if using onions, you can cut the bite more with a little boiling water). Drain water and mix shallots with yogurt and all other ingredients. Taste and add more salt or sugar as desired. Add other ingredients if you like. You can also thin the sauce with water for a different consistency.

I usually aim for an equal balance between sweet and salty flavor, with ingredients like shallots that add a little crunch to the sauce. This gets better in the fridge for the next day’s lunch!