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Haydari

Serves 4 to 6 Dip vegetarian, Appetizers

Haydari

Haydari is a beloved staple of Turkish meze tables, often prepared with a practiced hand that measures salt by intuition and adds olive oil with generosity. Traditionally, it's a dish that brings a touch of creamy indulgence to any gathering, perfectly suited for leisurely evenings where the table is shared among friends and family. This version is crafted to capture the essence of home cooking, where each ingredient is valued for its contribution to the dish's harmony.

Expect a smooth and thick texture, enhanced by the tang of strained yogurt and the subtle warmth of garlic. The dill adds a refreshing, herbaceous note that balances the richness, while the olive oil imparts a luscious finish. Haydari should be enjoyed with warm bread, inviting each guest to scoop and savor its delicate yet vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

  • 400 gstrained yogurt
  • 2 clovesgarlic
  • dill — chopped
  • 2 tbspolive oil
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by preparing the garlic. Peel 2 cloves of garlic and finely mince them. You can also use a garlic press if you prefer a smoother texture. This will ensure that the garlic blends well into the yogurt, providing a consistent flavor throughout the dish.
  2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add 400 g of strained yogurt. Use a spoon or spatula to stir the yogurt until it is smooth and creamy. This is your base for the Haydari, and it should have a thick, velvety texture.
  3. Gradually incorporate 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the yogurt. Pour the oil in a slow, steady stream while continuously stirring the yogurt with your spoon or spatula. This will help to emulsify the mixture, giving it a rich and creamy consistency.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the yogurt mixture. Stir well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the yogurt. Taste the mixture by spreading a small amount on a piece of bread to check the balance of flavors.
  5. Finely chop a handful of fresh dill and add it to the yogurt mixture. Stir it in gently, ensuring that the dill is evenly dispersed. The dill should add a fresh, aromatic note to the Haydari.
  6. Season the mixture with fine sea salt to taste. Start with a small pinch, stir, and taste again on bread. Adjust the salt gradually until the flavors are balanced and to your liking.
  7. Allow the Haydari to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This brief resting period helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Serve the Haydari cool, garnished with a sprig of dill if desired, as part of a meze spread.
Cover of Authentic Turkish Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Turkish Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Turkish Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Turkish volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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