Print

Cacık – Yogurt with Cucumber and Garlic

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 20 reviews

Cacik is a refreshing Turkish yogurt-based dish featuring strained yogurt blended with grated cucumber, garlic, and aromatic dried mint, finished with a drizzle of olive oil. Light and creamy, it serves beautifully as a cooling side dish or appetizer, perfect to balance spicy meals or enjoy as a wholesome snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups strained yogurt
  • 1 medium cucumber, grated and squeezed of excess water
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely crushed
  • 2 tablespoons cold water (adjust as needed)
  • 1 teaspoon dried mint
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yogurt: Whisk the strained yogurt in a bowl until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency, ensuring no lumps remain for the best texture.
  2. Process the Cucumber: Grate the cucumber finely and then squeeze out the excess water using a clean cloth or your hands to avoid making the cacik watery.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the grated cucumber and finely crushed garlic to the whipped yogurt, mixing gently to combine all flavors evenly.
  4. Adjust Consistency: Pour in a small amount of cold water, starting with about 2 tablespoons, and stir to achieve a light, refreshing texture rather than a thick dip.
  5. Season: Add salt and dried mint to the mixture, adjusting seasoning to taste, and blend once more to integrate well.
  6. Serve: Transfer the cacik to a serving bowl and drizzle the olive oil over the top for richness and aroma. Serve chilled as a side or appetizer.

Notes

  • Ensure the texture is light and not as thick as a dip; adding cold water helps achieve the traditional consistency.
  • Use fresh or strained yogurt for better creaminess and tanginess.
  • Grating cucumber finely and removing excess water prevents the dish from becoming too watery.
  • Dried mint adds authentic flavor but can be substituted with fresh mint if preferred.
  • Chill before serving to enhance its refreshing qualities.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/cack-yogurt-with-cucumber-and-garlic/