Tzatziki, also known as cacık, is a refreshing and flavorful yogurt-based sauce or dip that originated in the eastern Mediterranean region. It's a staple in Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisine and is enjoyed as a condiment, appetizer, or side dish. Typically made with strained yogurt, grated cucumbers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and fresh herbs like dill or mint, tzatziki has a cool and tangy flavor with a creamy texture. This versatile sauce complements various dishes like grilled meats, kebabs, falafel, pita bread, and vegetable crudités. It can also be used as a marinade or spread in sandwiches and wraps. With variations and adaptations across different regions, tzatziki offers a delightful culinary experience that combines the goodness of yogurt, the freshness of cucumbers, and the aromatic blend of herbs and spices. In this article, we'll explore classic and unique tzatziki recipes, including a vegan version and a flavorful spicy tzatziki variation.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
CACIK TURKISH YOGURT AND CUCUMBER
Steps:
- Whisk the yogurt in a large bowl to make sure it's smooth. Add water to the yogurt and whisk until it's completely incorporated.
- Grate the cucumbers in another bowl and if they're too watery, squeeze out the excess water. If they're not too watery, add the directly to the yogurt and water.
- Mix well and add garlic, salt and dried mint. Taste and add more salt if needed.
- Chill cacik yogurt and cucumber in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
- To serve, divide it between 4 bowls and top each with a little bit of olive oil.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 118 kcal, Carbohydrate 9 g, Protein 5 g, Fat 8 g, SaturatedFat 3 g, Cholesterol 16 mg, Sodium 352 mg, Fiber 1 g, Sugar 7 g, ServingSize 1 serving
TURKISH YOGURT WITH CUCUMBERS AND HERBS (CACıK)
Steps:
- First, whisk the yogurt and olive oil together to make a smooth mixture. Gradually whisk in the water until you get the consistency you want. Some prefer their 'cacık' watery while some like it thick. It's completely up to you.
- Next add the cucumbers, garlic, and spices and mix thoroughly until smooth. Adjust the spices to your taste.
- It is best to refrigerate your 'cacık' for a few hours before serving. Serve your ice-cold 'cacık' in small, decorative bowls. Drizzle a little bit of olive oil in the center of each one. Garnish each with a small sprig of fresh mint or dill weed.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 133 kcal, Carbohydrate 15 g, Cholesterol 8 mg, Fiber 1 g, Protein 8 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, Sodium 675 mg, Sugar 11 g, Fat 6 g, ServingSize 4 servings, UnsaturatedFat 0 g
YOGURT AND CUCUMBER SALAD (TZATZIKI OR CACIK)
Provided by David Kamen
Categories Condiment/Spread Salad Side No-Cook Yogurt Mint Cucumber Fat Free Vegetarian Pescatarian Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added Kosher
Yield Makes 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- 1. Place the shredded cucumbers in a medium bowl and toss with a few pinches of salt. Set aside for 15 minutes to draw some of the liquid out of the cucumbers.
- 2. Drain the excess liquid from the bowl of cucumbers. Add in the yogurt, vinegar, garlic, dried mint, and fresh mint. Mix well to combine. Adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
KITTENCAL'S TZATZIKI (GREEK CUCUMBER AND YOGURT SALAD)
This is worth making it is so delicious! Greek yogurt is richer and thicker then regular yogurt and is the best used for this recipe, if you cannot find Greek yogurt just use 4 cups regular full-fat plain yogurt and drain it in the fridge through a triple thickness of cheesecloth for 8 hours or overnight, if you are using Greek yogurt you will not have to strain it, once you try Greek yogurt you will never go back to regular yogurt again! Plan ahead this needs to chill for a minimum of 2 hours, you won't be able to keep your spoon out of the bowl LOL! Make certain to drain the cucumber very well for this. Serve this anyway or with anything you want to, it is great on pita. Prep time is only if you are using the Greek yogurt if you are straining the yogurt prep time will be more.
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Vegetable
Time 2h
Yield 5 cups
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Put the finely chopped cucumbers in a sieve and press out as much excess liquid as possible.
- In a large bowl mix the minced garlic with the salt into a paste.
- Add in the Greek yogurt (or strained yogurt) with garlic/salt paste, add to the drained cucumbers, mint, olive oil, more salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and chill for a minimum of 2 hours before serving (you won't be able to keep you spoon out of the bowl lol!).
Nutrition Facts : Calories 31.9, Fat 0.2, SaturatedFat 0.1, Sodium 237.8, Carbohydrate 7.6, Fiber 1.3, Sugar 3, Protein 1.4
Tips:
- For the best flavor, use high-quality plain yogurt. Greek yogurt is a good option because it is thick and creamy.
- Use fresh, crisp cucumbers. English cucumbers are a good choice because they have a mild flavor and don't need to be peeled.
- Grate the cucumbers finely so that they blend well with the other ingredients.
- Season the yogurt and cucumber salad to taste with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as dill, mint, or garlic.
- Serve the yogurt and cucumber salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or appetizer.
Conclusion:
Yogurt and cucumber salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for summer gatherings. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. With its creamy texture, fresh flavor, and refreshing taste, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next party or potluck.
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