Discover the refreshing taste of "Yogurt with Cucumbers" (Mast o Khiar), a delightful Persian dish that will elevate your dining experience! This creamy, cool concoction is not just a side dish; it's a culinary masterpiece that perfectly balances the tanginess of yogurt with the crispness of fresh cucumbers. With just a few simple ingredients and a mere 10 minutes of prep time, you can impress your family and friends with this vibrant appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Ready to dive into a world of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Persian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Yogurt
- Cucumbers, diced
- Dried mint
- Salt
- Pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumbers by washing them thoroughly and removing any wax or dirt. If using garden cucumbers, you may want to peel them partially or completely depending on their skin thickness.
- Dice the cucumbers into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size. For a more refined texture, you can remove the seeds before dicing.
- Select a high-quality, thick yogurt preferably Greek-style or strained yogurt for a creamier consistency. If using regular yogurt, strain it through a cheesecloth for 30 minutes to remove excess liquid.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the yogurt and diced cucumbers. Stir gently to ensure even distribution.
- Crush the dried mint leaves between your fingers to release their aromatic oils before adding to the yogurt-cucumber mixture.
- Season the mixture with salt, starting with a small amount and adjusting to taste. Mix thoroughly.
- If using pine nuts, lightly toast them in a dry skillet until golden brown to enhance their nutty flavor. Allow them to cool before sprinkling on top.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chill.
- Before serving, garnish with additional dried mint and toasted pine nuts if desired. Serve cold as a side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cucumbers: Opt for fresh, firm cucumbers. If you can, use Persian cucumbers for their mild flavor and thin skin, which requires less peeling.
- Strain Your Yogurt: For a thicker and creamier texture, strain regular yogurt through cheesecloth for about 30 minutes. Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative if you want to skip this step.
- Enhance Flavor with Mint: Crushing dried mint leaves before adding them to the mixture helps release their essential oils, amplifying the dish's aromatic qualities.
- Adjust Salt to Taste: Start with a small pinch of salt and gradually add more to suit your palate. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to take it out!
- Chill for Best Results: Allow the dish to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes it incredibly refreshing!
- Garnish Creatively: Toasted pine nuts add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. Consider garnishing with additional mint leaves or even a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch.
- Serve as Part of a Mezze Platter: This dish pairs wonderfully with other Persian dishes, making it a fantastic addition to a mezze platter for gatherings.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
