RecipesBulgariaTarator

Tarator

A refreshing cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill, and walnuts, perfect for hot summer days.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
Tarator - Bulgaria traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Plain yogurt(full-fat, preferably Bulgarian)
  • 2 medium Cucumbers(peeled, seeded, and finely diced or grated)
  • 2-3 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 0.5 cup Fresh dill(chopped)
  • 0.25 cup Walnuts(chopped, for garnish)
  • 1 cup Water(cold, or more to desired consistency)
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil(optional, for drizzling)
  • to taste Salt

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. If using very thick yogurt, you can thin it with a little water.

    💡 Tip: Using a whisk will ensure a smooth consistency.
  2. 2

    Add the diced or grated cucumbers, minced garlic, chopped dill, and salt to the yogurt. Stir well to combine.

    💡 Tip: Adjust garlic and dill to your preference.
  3. 3

    Gradually add cold water, stirring continuously, until the soup reaches your desired consistency. Some prefer it thicker, others thinner.

  4. 4

    Chill the tarator in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

  5. 5

    Serve cold, garnished with chopped walnuts and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

    💡 Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use good quality, thick yogurt for the best texture.
  • Adjust the amount of garlic and dill to your personal taste.
  • Tarator is best served very cold.
  • If you don't have walnuts, toasted sunflower seeds can be used as a garnish.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a tangier flavor.
  • Include a finely chopped green bell pepper for added crunch.
  • For a vegan version, use a thick, unsweetened plant-based yogurt (like soy or coconut) and omit the walnuts or use a vegan alternative.

🏷️ Tags