Turkish Yogurt Sauce

A lighter cousin to Haydari, this sauce is the star of Turkish meze platters. The cool creaminess of yogurt and fresh herbs creates the perfect contrast to rich, fatty kebabs. The secret lies in the quality of the yogurt: the thicker, the better.
🕒 Prep Time 10 mins
Total Time 25 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 60 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Turkish

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Grater (for garlic)
  • Mixing bowl

Allergen Information

⚠️ Milk

Instructions

1

Grate or crush garlic to a paste. Finely chop dill and mint.

Tip: Mashing garlic with salt helps create a paste that blends seamlessly.
2

Whisk yogurt with olive oil and lemon juice until smooth.

Tip: Oil emulsifies slightly with the yogurt for a silky mouthfeel.
3

Fold in herbs and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.

Tip: Mint provides a cooling sensation (menthol) that pairs well with spicy food.
4

Chill for 15 minutes before serving.

Tip: Time allows dry or fresh herb flavors to infuse the yogurt fat.

Recipe FAQ

My yogurt is too thin.
Strain it through a cheesecloth or coffee filter, or use Greek yogurt. It's hard to thicken it later.
Storage?
2-3 days in the fridge, but garlic flavor intensifies over time.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup thick plain yogurt (Greek style)
  • 1 clove fresh garlic
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
  • 1 tsp fresh mint (chopped)
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper