When I first started with South Indies, as a regualr series in the blog, a lot of people came forward & shared their favorite South Indian recipes with me. Asha from Foodies Hope was first one to mail me her Grandmother's recipe, Menasala - A summery cucumber & yogurt gravy. Thanks Asha, for this wonderful recipe. Its now a regular at my home too.

Summer is at its peak here. And, what can be a better way to beat the heat ...

• 2 cucumbers - peeled & chopped into small cubes
• 1 cup fresh yogurt
• Salt as per taste
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• A sprig of curry leaves
• 2 dry red chillies - broken
• Finely chopped cilantro - for garnish

To Grind:

• 2 -3 tbsp fresh coconut - grated
• 1 1/2 tsp coriander seeds
• 4 green chillies
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 small red onion
• 1 tbsp yogurt

Method:

• In a tsp of oil, roast all the ingredients mentioned in the 'To Grind' list until they turn slightly reddish. Set aside to cool.
• Once cool, grind together with coconut, onion & yogurt adding very little water
• In a large bowl, mix together cucumber cubes, ground paste & yogurt. Whisk well.
• Temper with mustard seeds, red chillies & curry leaves.
• Adjust salt & garnish with finely chopped cilantro.

Serve with HOT steamed rice. Enjoi !!!

The addition of roasted coriander seeds & raw onions add a kick to the otherwise regular raita. This is a perfect summer dish .. Go ahead & make it right now ...