How to Make Haydari: A Refreshing Yogurt Dip from Turkey

Haydari, a creamy and refreshing Turkish yogurt dip, is a staple on meze platters all over Turkey. With its simple elegance and vibrant herby flavor, it’s no wonder this dip has stolen the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers worldwide. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home!

Imagine this: you’re dipping warm pita bread into a cool and zesty dip, the creamy yogurt playing on your tongue with a hint of dill and mint. That’s Haydari, and once you try it, you’ll be making it for every gathering, picnic, or even just a light snack.

Gather Your Ingredients: Turkish Delights Await!

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this taste of Turkey in your own kitchen:

The Essentials:

• 2 cups thick Greek yogurt (strained yogurt for extra creaminess)
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• A pinch of black pepper, for a touch of warmth

Optional Garnishes:

• A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
• A sprinkle of dried mint
• A pinch of paprika (for a pop of color and smoky flavor)

Ingredient Notes:

• Yogurt: The key to a thick and creamy Haydari is using thick, strained yogurt. Greek yogurt works perfectly, but if you can find Turkish yogurt (süzme yogurt), that’s even better!
• Herbs: Fresh dill and mint are essential for the authentic Haydari flavor. Dried herbs can be used as a substitute if needed, but fresh herbs provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor.

Equipment: Simplicity is Key

You won’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe. Here’s all you need:

• A mixing bowl
• A fork or a whisk
• A serving bowl

Let’s Make Haydari: A Step-by-Step Journey

1. Strain the Yogurt (Optional): If you want an extra creamy Haydari, line a strainer with cheesecloth or a coffee filter and place the yogurt in the strainer. Let it drain for about 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator. This will remove excess moisture.

2. Combine the Ingredients: In your mixing bowl, combine the strained yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped dill, chopped mint, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix It Up: Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the yogurt watery.

4. Taste and Adjust: Have a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Want it a bit tangier? Add a pinch more salt. Prefer a more pronounced herbal flavor? Add a touch more dill or mint.

5. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the Haydari chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Presentation is Everything: Haydari Serving Ideas

Haydari is a versatile dip that can be served in a variety of ways:

• Rustic Elegance: Spoon the Haydari into a shallow bowl and create a well in the center. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with dried mint and a pinch of paprika.
• Modern Flair: Serve the Haydari in small individual bowls for a sophisticated touch. Garnish each bowl with a sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
• On-the-Go Snack: Spoon the Haydari into a reusable container for a delicious and healthy snack. Pair it with pita bread, veggie sticks, or crackers.

Haydari served in a bowl with olive oil and herbs

FAQs: Your Haydari Questions Answered

Can I make Haydari ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, Haydari tastes even better when made ahead. The flavors have more time to blend and develop. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

What can I serve with Haydari?
Haydari is a delightful companion to a wide range of dishes. It’s traditionally served as part of a meze platter alongside dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, and olives. It also pairs wonderfully with:

• Warm pita bread
• Crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers
• Grilled meats and kebabs
• Falafel and other Middle Eastern dishes
• Crackers and crudités

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs are always preferred for the most vibrant flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by half, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Haydari as part of a mezze platter

A Taste of Turkey in Your Kitchen

Haydari is more than just a dip – it’s an experience. It’s a taste of Turkish cuisine that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. So why not gather your ingredients and embark on your Haydari adventure?

“Haydari is a true testament to the beauty of simplicity in Turkish cuisine,” says Chef Aylin, a renowned expert in Mediterranean cuisine. “With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a dip that’s both flavorful and versatile. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves exploring new flavors.”

What are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and tag us on social media. We can’t wait to see your delicious Haydari!