Tzatziki

Tzatziki served with pita bread

Greek yogurt-based sauce or dip

Traditional tzatziki sauce

Tzatziki (Greek: τζατζίκι , pronounced za-ZEE-kee) is a traditional Greek sauce or dip known for its creamy texture and refreshing flavor. It is primarily made from strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and aromatic herbs such as dill, mint, or parsley. Tzatziki is a versatile and essential component of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, used as a dip, spread, sauce, or accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetables.

Turkish cacık seasoned with Aleppo pepper and mint

Bulgarian tarator served as soup

Tzatziki with olives and a spearmint garnish, served as meze

Ingredients

The core ingredients in traditional tzatziki include:

• Yogurt: Typically strained or Greek yogurt, which provides a thick, creamy texture and a tangy base.
• Cucumber: Grated or finely chopped for a cooling, crunchy texture.
• Garlic: Minced or crushed, adding a pungent and savory flavor.
• Olive oil: Commonly extra virgin olive oil, used to enrich the dip and give a fruity undertone.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh or dried herbs such as dill, mint, or parsley are often added. Lemon juice, salt, and black pepper are used to balance the flavor.

Optional additions can include vinegar, onion, or chili flakes depending on regional variation or personal taste.

Preparation

The preparation of tzatziki typically follows these steps:

1. Strain the yogurt: Use cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer to remove excess whey from the yogurt, making it thick and creamy.
2. Prepare the cucumber: Grate or finely chop, then squeeze out excess water using a cloth or sieve to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
3. Mix ingredients: In a bowl, combine the yogurt, cucumber, garlic, chopped herbs, olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), salt, and pepper.
4. Blend and chill: Stir until fully combined. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.

Tzatziki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Culinary Uses

Tzatziki is used in a wide variety of ways across Mediterranean cuisines:

• Dip: Commonly served with warm pita bread, crudités, or falafel.
• Sauce: Paired with gyros, souvlaki, or other grilled meats and kebabs.
• Spread: Used in sandwiches, wraps, or burgers to add a creamy and tangy flavor.
• Marinade: Used to tenderize and flavor meats like chicken or lamb before grilling or roasting.

Tzatziki is especially prominent in dishes such as Greek salad, mezze platters, and as a complement to rice or grain dishes.

Variations and Regional Adaptations

Though tzatziki originates from Greece, similar sauces exist throughout the Mediterranean and Middle East:

• Cacık (Turkey): A thinner version often served as a cold soup or side dish. Typically includes dried mint, vinegar, and is sometimes diluted with water.
• Labneh (Middle East): A strained yogurt cheese with a much thicker consistency, often served as a spread or dip with olive oil and spices.
• Tarator (Bulgaria): A cold summer soup made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill, and walnuts, often served chilled.
• Raita (India): A similar condiment using spices such as cumin, coriander, and sometimes chili, with variations including boondi or onion raita.

These regional versions reflect the adaptability of the basic yogurt-cucumber-garlic combination across cultures.

Nutritional Information

Tzatziki is a healthy and low-calorie condiment, particularly when made with low-fat yogurt. It is rich in:

• Protein (from yogurt)
• Calcium
• Vitamin B12
• Probiotics (if live cultures are present in the yogurt)
• Antioxidants and fiber from cucumbers and herbs

Homemade versions generally contain fewer additives and preservatives compared to commercially available tzatziki products.

Cultural Significance

Tzatziki is a staple of Greek hospitality and cuisine, often served at gatherings, festive meals, and as part of a traditional mezze. Its cooling nature makes it especially popular during the summer months, where it serves as a refreshing counterpart to grilled and spicy dishes.

See also

• Greek cuisine
• Cacık
• Raita
• List of dips
• Mediterranean diet
• Yogurt-based dishes

External links

• Traditional Tzatziki Recipe
• Greek Reporter – How to Make Tzatziki

Recipes (external)

• Diet Doctor recipes on Tzatziki
• Allrecipes Tzatziki
• Ruled.me recipes on Tzatziki
• Food.com recipes on Tzatziki
• Pinterest recipes on Tzatziki
• You Tube recipes on Tzatziki