I absolutely love this recipe because it combines fresh ingredients into a creamy, refreshing dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, the kick from the garlic and the aromatic herbs makes it a standout snack that’s both healthy and satisfying!
Cacik, a creamy Turkish twist on tzatziki, is a favorite summer dish of mine. It combines the crispness of grated cucumber with the coolness of strained yogurt.
In my recipe, the minced garlic brings a bold flavor, dill and mint add to the traditional seasoning, and extra-virgin olive oil drizzled over the top brings it all together. Cacik is a nutrient-dense side dish that complements many meals and is simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Unflavored Yogurt: Abundant in protein and probiotics; promotes gut health.
Cucumber is low in calories, offers hydration, and provides a satisfying and refreshing crunch.
Garlic: Full of antioxidants, delivers a strong, delicious flavor.
Dill, fresh: Has an abundance of vitamins and minerals; lends a fragrant, herbal essence.
Cooling, aromatic note; assists in digestion; plentiful plants.
One source of healthy fats that boosts richness and flavor is extra-virgin olive oil.
Lemon) Juice: Rich in vitamin C; brings a lively, zesty flavor.
Ingredient Quantities
- 2 cups plain yogurt (preferably strained yogurt or Greek yogurt)
- 1 cucumber, grated or finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of paprika (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Put the yogurt in a mixing bowl of medium size. If you’re going with regular yogurt, think about straining it through cheesecloth to get a thicker consistency before you begin.
2. The cucumber must be peeled and either grated or chopped very finely. Any excess water must be squeezed from the cucumber, using either a clean cloth or a paper towel.
3. In the bowl, combine the yogurt and the grated or chopped cucumber.
4. Chop the garlic finely, and put it into the mixture.
5. Combine the chopped fresh dill and mint in the bowl.
6. Add the extra-virgin olive oil and the lemon juice.
7. To taste, season with salt and black pepper, stirring everything so that it combines nicely.
8. Put the bowl in the refrigerator and cover it so that the contents can chill for at least 30 minutes, during which time the flavors may blend and harmonize.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, if needed.
10. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley and a dash of paprika. Serve cold.
Equipment Needed
1. Medium mixing bowl
2. Cheesecloth (optional, for straining yogurt)
3. Vegetable peeler
4. Grater or sharp knife
5. Clean cloth or paper towel
6. Cutting board
7. Chef’s knife
8. Measuring spoons
9. Spoon or spatula for mixing
10. Refrigerator
11. Cover for the mixing bowl (plastic wrap or a lid)
FAQ
- Q: Can I use regular yogurt instead of strained or Greek yogurt?
A: Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but strained or Greek yogurt will give a creamier texture. - Q: How long can I store Cacik in the fridge?A: Cacik can be kept in the fridge for as long as 2 days.
- Q: Can I substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs?You may replace fresh herbs with dried herbs, but use them sparingly as they are more concentrated. For the best flavor, fresh herbs are the ideal choice.
- Q: Is it necessary to peel the cucumber?Peeling the cucumber is optional. If the skin is thick or waxed, peeling is recommended.
- Q: Is there a way to make Cacik vegan?A: Yes, it is possible to make Cacik vegan. You can substitute a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the traditional yogurt.
- Q: Can I add more garlic for a stronger flavor?Absolutely, your taste desire is the most important thing when it comes to achieving the best results in garlic.
- Q: What dishes pair well with Cacik?A: Cacik is a wonderful accompaniment to grilled meats, kebabs, or as a refreshing side to a variety of Mediterranean dishes.
Substitutions and Variations
Regular plain yogurt can be used in place of strained or Greek yogurt. But for a thicker consistency, you might consider straining the regular yogurt so it can be better matched with the texture of Greek yogurt.
Substitute dried dill for fresh dill in equal parts, but use sparingly. Dried herbs are more strongly flavored than fresh.
Use dried mint in place of fresh mint, using about half the amount called for fresh mint.
Instead of lemon juice, you can use lime juice for a somewhat different citrus taste.
To achieve a different flavor profile, substitute avocado oil for olive oil.
Pro Tips
1. Strain Your Yogurt: If using regular yogurt, definitely strain it for a few hours to achieve a thicker consistency, similar to Greek yogurt. This helps prevent a watery dip.
2. Cucumber Prep: To ensure your dish doesn’t become watery, salt the grated or chopped cucumber lightly after squeezing out the water and let it sit for a few minutes. This draws out additional moisture, which you can then blot away before adding it to the yogurt.
3. Garlic Infusion: For a more subtle garlic flavor, gently warm the minced garlic in the olive oil over low heat before adding to the yogurt. This can slightly temper the raw garlic’s sharpness.
4. Flavor Development: If time allows, prepare the yogurt mixture a day ahead and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This gives the flavors more time to meld and intensify.
5. Custom Garnishes: While parsley and paprika are wonderful, consider adding some thin slices of radish or a sprinkle of sumac for added color and a zingy kick when garnishing.
Cacik Turkish Tzatziki Recipe
My favorite Cacik Turkish Tzatziki Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Medium mixing bowl
2. Cheesecloth (optional, for straining yogurt)
3. Vegetable peeler
4. Grater or sharp knife
5. Clean cloth or paper towel
6. Cutting board
7. Chef’s knife
8. Measuring spoons
9. Spoon or spatula for mixing
10. Refrigerator
11. Cover for the mixing bowl (plastic wrap or a lid)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups plain yogurt (preferably strained yogurt or Greek yogurt)
- 1 cucumber, grated or finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of paprika (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Put the yogurt in a mixing bowl of medium size. If you’re going with regular yogurt, think about straining it through cheesecloth to get a thicker consistency before you begin.
2. The cucumber must be peeled and either grated or chopped very finely. Any excess water must be squeezed from the cucumber, using either a clean cloth or a paper towel.
3. In the bowl, combine the yogurt and the grated or chopped cucumber.
4. Chop the garlic finely, and put it into the mixture.
5. Combine the chopped fresh dill and mint in the bowl.
6. Add the extra-virgin olive oil and the lemon juice.
7. To taste, season with salt and black pepper, stirring everything so that it combines nicely.
8. Put the bowl in the refrigerator and cover it so that the contents can chill for at least 30 minutes, during which time the flavors may blend and harmonize.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, if needed.
10. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley and a dash of paprika. Serve cold.
