Kashmiri Jajukh: Spiced Yogurt Salad

Ingredients

In the original Armenian Jajukh, the salad is typically made with cucumbers, yogurt, garlic, and herbs like dill or mint. However, in the Kashmiri adaptation, we incorporate Kashmiri spices such as fennel seeds, ginger, and Kashmiri chili powder to infuse the dish with a distinct flavor profile. This adaptation adds a spicy twist to the traditional yogurt salad, making it more suitable for the Kashmiri cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Jajukh, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) thick yogurt 2 cups (470ml) thick yogurt
• 1 cucumber, peeled and finely chopped 1 cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1/2 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder 1/2 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth and creamy.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped cucumber and red onion to the yogurt.
3. 3.
   In a small pan, dry roast the fennel seeds until fragrant. Crush them lightly using a mortar and pestle.
4. 4.
   Add the crushed fennel seeds, ginger paste, Kashmiri chili powder, and salt to the yogurt mixture. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5. 5.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. 6.
   Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Serve chilled as a side dish or accompaniment to your favorite Kashmiri meal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fennel seeds — Dry roasting the fennel seeds enhances their flavor. Be careful not to burn them while roasting.
• Ginger paste — If you don't have ginger paste, you can grate fresh ginger and use it instead.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt.
• Adjust the amount of Kashmiri chili powder according to your spice preference.
• You can add a pinch of roasted cumin powder for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve Kashmiri Jajukh with warm naan bread or steamed rice for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different herbs like mint or cilantro for added freshness.

Serving advice

Serve Kashmiri Jajukh chilled in individual bowls or as a side dish on a platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of Kashmiri chili powder and fresh cilantro leaves for an appealing presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal, serve Kashmiri Jajukh in a traditional Kashmiri copper bowl or a colorful ceramic dish. Pair it with a side of warm naan bread or steamed rice to create a visually pleasing and delicious meal.