MAST-O KHIAR (PERSIAN CUCUMBER AND HERB YOGURT)

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Mast-o Khiar (Persian Cucumber and Herb Yogurt) image

Yogurt, both plain and with cucumbers, is everywhere on Iranian tables - the thicker and sourer, the better. Mast-o khiar is an everyday side similar to Indian raita or Greek tzatziki, but raisins, walnuts and rose petals elevate this version of the dish, adding a host of different flavors and textures. Dice, rather than grate, the cucumbers to keep them from getting watery, and don't skip the dried mint and dried dill, which add dimension to the fresh herbs.

Provided by Samin Nosrat

Categories     easy, quick, condiments, salads and dressings, side dish

Time 20m

Yield About 4 cups

Number Of Ingredients 10

1/4 cup black or golden raisins
3 Persian cucumbers (about 1/2 pound)
24 ounces Greek yogurt or labneh (3 cups)
2 tablespoons any combination of finely chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, basil, tarragon or dill
1 garlic clove, finely grated or pounded into a smooth paste with a pinch of salt
Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
3/4 teaspoon ground or crumbled dried rose petals (optional)
1 teaspoon dried mint
1 teaspoon dried dill
3 tablespoons roughly chopped toasted walnut pieces

Steps:

  • In a small bowl, submerge the raisins in boiling water to plump for 10 minutes, then drain well.
  • Remove alternating stripes of peel on cucumbers and trim ends. Dice cucumbers into 1/4-inch pieces and place in a large bowl with raisins, yogurt, fresh herbs, garlic, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper and, if using, half the rose petals. Using your fingers to break up any large pieces, gently grind the dried mint and dried dill into the bowl. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
  • Just before serving, stir in the walnuts and transfer to serving bowl. Garnish with remaining rose petals, if using. Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Vanessa Bailey
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This is a great recipe for a light and healthy lunch or dinner. The yogurt and herb sauce is delicious and the cucumbers are so refreshing.


Aida Mesto
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I made this for a party and it was a huge hit! Everyone loved the unique and refreshing flavor. I will definitely be making this again.


Erlinda Johnson
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This dish was just okay. I thought the yogurt was a bit bland and the cucumbers were too watery.


Raja zain Janjua
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I'm not a huge fan of cucumbers, but this dish was actually really good. The yogurt and herb sauce really helped to balance out the cucumber flavor. I would definitely make this again.


Rai Qasim Ali Kharal
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This is now my go-to recipe for cucumber salad. It's so easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.


mohabbat mohabbat
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Not bad, but I think I would have liked it more with a different type of yogurt. The Greek yogurt I used was a bit too thick and tangy for my taste.


tracey marriott
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I've made this dish several times now and it's always a hit. The flavors are so well-balanced and it's so easy to make. I love serving it as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.


Jobaidur Rahaman
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Easy and refreshing. Perfect for a hot summer day.


Dylan Martinez
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This dish was a refreshing and delicious way to enjoy cucumbers. The yogurt and herb sauce was flavorful and creamy, and the cucumbers were crisp and refreshing. I loved the contrast of textures and flavors. I will definitely be making this again!


M SOHAIL ARAIN
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Meh.


Farhan Fardin
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Wasn't sure about this recipe at first, but I'm glad I tried it. The yogurt and cucumber were a great combination, and the herbs added a nice depth of flavor. Will definitely make this again.


Bishal
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Loved the simplicity of this dish. The fresh herbs really made it special. I served it as a side dish with grilled fish, and it was a hit!


Waseem Jani
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Not a fan. The yogurt was too thick and the cucumbers were bland.


ItzCryptic
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Easy to make and packed with flavor! The cucumber and yogurt were a great combination, and the herbs gave it a nice touch. I'll definitely be making this again.


Dangerous butt Dangerous butt
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This Persian dish was an absolute delight! The yogurt and herb combination was incredibly refreshing, and the cucumbers added a nice crunch. I served it with grilled chicken and rice, and it was a perfect meal. Definitely recommend!


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