Description
Cacik is a refreshing Turkish yogurt and cucumber dish that serves as a versatile side, dip, or sauce. Made with creamy Greek yogurt, crisp cucumber, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic, it’s a perfect light and healthy accompaniment to grilled meats, bread, or as a chilled summer appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup cucumber (finely diced or grated)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cold water to thin (2–4 tablespoons, as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the yogurt base: In a mixing bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt until it becomes smooth and creamy, creating a perfect base for the cacik.
- Add cucumbers and seasonings: Stir in the finely diced or grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped fresh dill, chopped fresh mint, lemon juice if using, salt, and black pepper, ensuring all ingredients are combined evenly.
- Adjust consistency: Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition until you reach your desired consistency—thicker for a dip or thinner if you prefer a chilled soup or sauce.
- Chill and meld flavors: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and deepen.
- Serve and garnish: Before serving, drizzle with extra olive oil and optionally garnish with additional fresh herbs for enhanced flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a traditional texture, use strained yogurt and peeled cucumber to reduce excess moisture.
- Cacik is versatile and can be served as a dip with bread, a sauce over grilled meats, or a refreshing cold side dish.
- Adjust water quantity based on intended use—less for dip, more for soup-like consistency.
