Haydari Recipe

This recipe for Haydari is an absolute favorite because the creamy texture from the Greek yogurt and feta combination feels like a luxurious indulgence, yet it’s so simple to whip up. Plus, the fresh herbs and zesty lemon juice make it a refreshing and versatile dish that pairs perfectly with anything from pita bread to grilled veggies, making it a must-have at any gathering.

Haydari’s deep creaminess and rich taste are unbeatable. It starts with good Greek or strained yogurt.

A very small percentage of the time, we use low-fat yogurt, which can negatively affect the flavor. That said, the flavor of the base should never be compromised for the sake of nutritional content.

This should be a healthful dip and one that you will want to reach for most often.

Ingredients

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Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup strained yogurt (Greek yogurt)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Combine the strained yogurt and crumbled feta cheese in a mixing bowl and mix thoroughly until the result is smooth and creamy.

2. Finely chop fresh dill and mint leaves and add them to the yogurt and feta mixture, stirring gently to incorporate them evenly throughout.

3. Pour the olive oil over the mixture and add the minced garlic, making sure it is all combined.

4. Squeeze the bowl with fresh lemon juice and stir well to merge the acid with the rest of the ingredients.

5. Add salt and black pepper to the mixture, seasoning it to your personal taste. Adjust the amounts of these two ingredients according to your preference.

6. Move the Haydari to a dish from which it can be served. Level the top with the back of a spoon, so that it is an even surface and wholly appetizing.

7. If you want, you can lightly sprinkle paprika over the top for a pop of color and flavor boost.

8. You may optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra burst of freshness and an additional visual appeal.

9. Wrap the dish in plastic and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld.

10. Accompany the Haydari with warm pita bread, crisp vegetables, or as an offbeat yet delightful side dish to complement a main course. However you serve it, savor its richness!

Equipment Needed

1. Mixing bowl
2. Spoon (for mixing and leveling)
3. Cutting board
4. Knife (for chopping herbs and mincing garlic)
5. Garlic press (optional, for mincing garlic)
6. Lemon squeezer (optional)
7. Measuring spoons
8. Serving dish
9. Plastic wrap
10. Refrigerator (for chilling)

FAQ

• What is Haydari?A traditional Turkish appetizer, haydari is made with strained yogurt and a blend of herbs, spices, and other flavorings. It is an excellent accompaniment for grilled meats, as well as a dip for flatbreads and other types of bread. On its own, haydari is creamy, tangy, and cold—perfect for the summer months.
• Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?Though strained or Greek yogurt is preferred because of its stool-thick texture, you can use regular yogurt. Just be sure to strain it through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve to remove any excess liquid before using it in the following recipes.
• Is there an alternative to feta cheese?– Any crumbly cheese has the potential to match feta’s unique qualities and can be used as a substitute; however, I would not recommend a ricotta cheese or any cheese that is not tangy, because that is an essential element of what makes feta so delicious. Therefore, I will go ahead and recommend goat cheese or a mild blue cheese as excellent substitutes for feta.
• How long can I store Haydari?Keep Haydari in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no longer than 3 days. Stir before serving.
• Can I omit mint or dill if I don’t have them?– You can leave out either herb; however, both provide distinctive flavors. You could use parsley or chives, for instance, in their place to yield a different, yet still delicious, result.
• What can I serve with Haydari?Haydari is best served as a dip or spread; its silky consistency makes it easy to slather onto warm pita. For some, this would constitute the perfect summer lunch: warm pita, the fresh vegetables of your choice, and a platter of Haydari. But don’t limit yourself to lunch. Haydari—the Turkish version of labneh—has so many applications and occasions to star in that you’ll find yourself doubling the recipe just to keep it in stock.
• Is paprika necessary for garnish?You can skip the paprika, or use another spice, if you prefer. But I recommend adding it, not just for its hint of flavor but for the color it imparts to the finished dish.

Substitutions and Variations

Yogurt that has been strained: You can use regular yogurt as a substitute. You will simply allow it to drain in a cheesecloth overnight, after which it will be thick enough to use in place of the more traditional ingredient.
Substitutes for feta cheese: Use goat cheese or ricotta cheese for a flavor and texture that is similar, only slightly different.
Dill, fresh: This is okay to use in the amounts you have set; however, dried dill could replace it in a lesser quantity, as can other similar herbs like parsley. Dried dill could take the place of fresh dill in your recipe, but you would use only a third of the amount. Note that dried dill has a different flavor than fresh dill.
Mint leaves, fresh: If fresh basil or fresh cilantro are not available, they make good substitutes for this herb.
Olive oil: Substitute avocado oil or sunflower oil if that is your preference.

Pro Tips

1. Enhance Flavor Integration Consider preparing this dish a few hours or even a day in advance. Allowing the Haydari to sit in the refrigerator for an extended period gives the flavors time to meld and intensify, making for a more flavorful dish.

2. Optimize Texture For an extra creamy texture, use full-fat Greek yogurt and let it come to room temperature before mixing. This helps it blend more smoothly with the feta.

3. Customization Adjust the herb ratios to match your taste preference. If you love the fresh, vibrant taste of mint, increase it slightly, or if you want a more earthy flavor, use more dill.

4. Roast the Garlic For a milder and sweeter garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic cloves before mincing them. It will add a depth of flavor without being too overpowering.

5. Presentation Tip Before serving, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top of the Haydari. Not only does it add a beautiful sheen, but it also enhances the flavor and richness. You can also create a small well in the center of the dish for the oil to pool into for an elegant presentation.