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Carrot Pachadi

This vibrant carrot pachadi is a refreshing Indian vegetarian side dish that perfectly balances natural sweetness with a cooling yogurt base. Known for its pleasant crunch and aromatic tempering, this traditional accompaniment uses fresh carrots and fragrant curry leaves to create a dish that is as colourful as it is delicious. The gentle heat from the cayenne is softened by the creamy whole-milk yogurt, making it an ideal partner for spicier mains or a hearty dal.

Quick to prepare and naturally healthy, this homemade relish is a wonderful addition to an authentic feast. By lightly sautéing the carrots with toasted mustard seeds and red onion, you develop a savoury depth that elevates the vegetable's flavour. Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside warm naan or fluffy basmati rice for a nutritious lunch.

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Ingredients for Carrot Pachadi

  • 350ml plain whole-milk yoghurt

  • 450g carrots

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 1 teaspoon black mustard seeds

  • 8 fresh curry leaves

  • 1 cup finely chopped red onion

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 1/8 teaspoons cayenne

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander

  • a food processor fitted with shredding disk

How to make Carrot Pachadi

Drain yoghurt in a large fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, finely shred carrots using food processor.

Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then add mustard seeds and cook, covered, until they make popping sounds, about 15 seconds. Add curry leaves and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 3 seconds. Add carrots, onion, cumin, salt, and cayenne and cook over moderate heat, stirring frequently, until carrots are crisp-tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a shallow bowl and cool about 30 minutes. Stir in yoghurt and coriander.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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