Traditional Bulgarian Tarator: A Refreshing Cold Soup Recipe

Ingredients

2 large cucumbers
2 cloves of garlic
2 cups of plain yogurt
1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 tablespoons of white vinegar
Salt to taste
Cold water for thinning, if needed
Crushed walnuts for garnish, optional

Steps and instructions

Peel the cucumbers and chop them into small pieces.
Peel and mince the garlic.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, minced garlic, yogurt, dill, mint, olive oil, and vinegar. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Salt to taste. If the soup is too thick, add cold water to thin it to your desired consistency.
Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend together.
Serve the soup cold, garnished with crushed walnuts if desired.

Tools for making

Cutting board - To chop the cucumbers and mince the garlic.
Knife - For peeling the cucumbers, mincing the garlic, and general cutting tasks.
Large bowl - To mix and combine the ingredients.
Stirring spoon - For stirring and mixing the ingredients in the bowl.
Measuring cups - To measure the yogurt, olive oil, and vinegar.
Salt shaker - To add salt to taste.
Refrigerator - To chill the soup before serving.

Recipe variations

Add grated lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
Replace dill and mint with parsley and cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a thicker and creamier consistency.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a hint of spice.
Include finely chopped red onion or green onions for added crunch and flavor.
Top with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sumac for a tangy kick.
Add a handful of chopped walnuts, almonds, or pine nuts for added texture.
For a vegan version, substitute the yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or silken tofu.
Experiment with other herbs such as basil, tarragon, or chives to create unique flavor combinations.
Serve with a side of crusty bread or pita chips for dipping.

Recipe overview

Tarator is a traditional Bulgarian soup that is served cold and is perfect for the hot summer months. This refreshing dish features a creamy blend of yogurt, cucumber, and fresh herbs, all mixed together to create a wonderfully tangy and satisfying meal. Simple to prepare, tarator can be made ahead of time and chilled in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together. The result is a classic Eastern European dish that is light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Whether you're looking for a cool lunch or a unique appetizer, Tarator is a delightful choice. Add a garnish of crushed walnuts for an extra crunch, if desired.

Common questions

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt? Yes, you can use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt. Keep in mind that Greek yogurt is thicker and has a tangier taste, so you may want to adjust the consistency and flavor accordingly.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can substitute dried herbs if needed. Use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh herbs, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
Can I make tarator in advance? Yes, you can make tarator in advance. It is actually recommended to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to tarator? While tarator traditionally consists of cucumbers, yogurt, and herbs, you can certainly add additional ingredients according to your taste preferences. Some common additions include grated carrots, diced bell peppers, or even cooked chickpeas for added texture and flavor.
Is tarator served hot or cold? Tarator is typically served cold. It is a refreshing and chilled soup, perfect for hot summer days.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - A sturdy cutting board is needed to chop the cucumbers.
Knife - A sharp knife is essential for peeling and mincing the garlic, as well as chopping the cucumbers.
Large bowl - A large bowl will be used to mix all the ingredients together.
Stirring spoon - A spoon or spatula will be needed to mix the ingredients in the bowl.
Measuring cups - Measuring cups are required to measure the yogurt, olive oil, and white vinegar accurately.
Salt shaker - A salt shaker or salt mill is needed to add salt to taste.
Refrigerator - A refrigerator is necessary to chill the soup before serving.
Soup bowls - Soup bowls or bowls with deep sides are ideal for serving Tarator.
Optional: Walnut crusher - If you choose to garnish the soup with crushed walnuts, a walnut crusher or mortar and pestle will be useful.

Origin stories

Tarator is a traditional Bulgarian dish, served as a refreshing reprieve during the hot summer months. Its origins are tied to the Ottoman Empire, tracing back centuries, and it remains a staple in Bulgarian cuisine to this day. A curious fact - in its original form, Tarator was a drink. Yes, you read that right. This cooling cucumber and yogurt concoction started off as a beverage, with its transformation into a soup coming later on. Today, Tarator is not only enjoyed as a soup but also as a salad dressing and even as a drink again, proving that some things truly do come full circle!

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.