If you’ve ever ventured into the vibrant world of Greek cuisine, then you’ve probably encountered tzatziki—a cool, creamy, and utterly refreshing sauce that’s a staple in many Greek dishes. It is not just a sauce; it’s an experience. Made from rich, strained yogurt, crisp cucumbers, and a hint of dill, this versatile dip is perfect for adding a burst of freshness to any meal. Whether you’re drizzling it over grilled chicken, spreading it on a warm piece of pita, or using it as a dip for veggies, tzatziki is a must-try!
About recipe;
What’s the difference between Greek and Turkish tzatziki?
Growing up in Istanbul, I was no stranger to a similar sauce called “cacık.” It was a regular feature at our family table, and I thought I knew all there was to know about this type of yogurt sauce. That was until I traveled to Greece and had my first taste of tzatziki. While the two sauces share similarities, the differences are what make each one special.
Greek tzatziki is a bit thicker and creamier, made with strained yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, vinegar, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s a dip that holds its own, perfect for pairing with hearty dishes like gyros or souvlaki.
On the other hand, Turkish cacık is lighter and more liquid, almost like a cold soup. It’s made with plain yogurt, cucumber, mint, garlic, black pepper, and olive oil. The mint gives it a fresh, cooling taste, and it’s often served as a refreshing side dish on hot summer days. While tzatziki is a robust dip, cacık is something you might want to enjoy with a spoon!
Why should you make tzatziki at home?
For one, it’s the perfect summer dip. Its cool, creamy texture is just what you need on a hot day. But it is more than just a dip. It’s the ideal companion for grilled chicken, adding a tangy contrast to the smoky flavors. And if you’re a fan of wine, tzatziki pairs wonderfully with a crisp white, making it a great addition to your wine and cheese platter.
Plus, it is incredibly easy to make and adds a touch of Mediterranean flair to any meal. It’s light, healthy, and full of flavor—a perfect way to elevate your summer dining.
All you need is; strained yogurt, cucumber, fresh dill, vinegar, garlic and olive oil. You need to strain the cucumber. Grate the cucumbers and strain with a clean fabric.
Take a deep bowl, add strained yogurt, garlic, salt and vinegar. Combine well. Stir cucumber, fresh dill and olive oil.
Can’t Find Strained Yogurt?
No Problem! Check the strained yogurt recipe!
One of the key ingredients in tzatziki is strained yogurt, which gives the sauce its rich, thick texture. If you can’t find strained yogurt at your local store, don’t worry—you can easily make it at home! All you need is plain yogurt, a clean piece of fabric (like cheesecloth), and a strainer.
Here’s how to do it: Place the fabric over the strainer and pour the yogurt into the center. Gather up the edges of the fabric and tie them together to form a bundle. Then, let the yogurt drain for a few hours, or even overnight if you want it extra thick. Once it’s drained, give the bundle a gentle squeeze to remove any remaining liquid, and voila—your homemade strained yogurt is ready!
Now that you know the ins and outs of tzatziki, it’s time to give it a try! This simple, yet delicious recipe will bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a snack, tzatziki is sure to be a hit. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy this delightful dip—it’s a little taste of Greece that you can savor any time!
