Turkish Cacik: A Refreshing Yogurt Dish with Cucumber and Herbs

Turkish cacik is an essential component of any Turkish meal, and for good reason. It's a simple dish to make, but it's incredibly refreshing and flavorful, and it can be used as a dip, a sauce, or even a marinade. The key to making a great cacik is to use high-quality yogurt. Greek yogurt is a good choice, but you can also use Turkish yogurt if you can find it. The yogurt should be thick and strained, so that it has a smooth, creamy texture. Once you have your yogurt, the rest of the ingredients are simple: diced cucumber, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill and mint, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a dip with pita bread or vegetables, or as a sauce for grilled meats.

Cacik is a dish that has been enjoyed in Turkey for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire, where it was served as a refreshing dish during the hot summer months. Cacik is typically made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and mint. However, there are many variations on the recipe, and some people also add other ingredients, such as chopped walnuts or almonds. Cacik is a versatile dish that can be served as a dip, a sauce, or even a marinade. It is also a healthy and refreshing dish that is perfect for summer gatherings.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup strained thick yogurt
• 1 medium cucumber, finely diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and mint.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to blend.
5. Serve chilled as a dip with pita bread, vegetables, or as a sauce for grilled meats.
6. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.

Why It Works

• The combination of yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and mint creates a refreshing and flavorful dish.
• The yogurt provides a thick and creamy base, while the cucumber adds a refreshing crunch.
• The garlic, dill, and mint add a savory and herbaceous flavor.
• The olive oil helps to emulsify the ingredients and adds a rich flavor.
• The salt and pepper help to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste.