TZATZIKI

Middle Eastern Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a classic Greek appetizer (meze) made with thick strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and fresh herbs. This creamy, refreshing dip pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, pita bread, falafel, kebabs, salads, and many Mediterranean dishes.

Ingredients

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or hung curd)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• ½ tsp mint leaves, chopped
• 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cucumber
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1–2 tsp lemon juice
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. Grate the cucumber, add a pinch of salt, and leave it aside for 10 minutes.
2. Gently squeeze the grated cucumber (or strain it using a sieve) to remove the excess liquid. Discard the cucumber juice, use it in another recipe, or drink it. Removing the liquid helps keep the Tzatziki thick and creamy.
3. Add the squeezed cucumber to the Greek yogurt.
4. Add the minced garlic, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice.
6. Add the chopped mint and fresh dill.
7. Stir everything together until well combined.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning if required.
9. Refrigerate the Tzatziki for at least 2–3 hours before serving. Overnight chilling gives even better flavor.
10. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh dill, and sprinkle a little black pepper and cayenne pepper on top.
11. Your delicious homemade Tzatziki is ready to serve.

Enjoy!