🇹🇷 Turkey · Food
Cacık (Turkish Yogurt and Cucumber Dip)
By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
Cacık is a wonderfully refreshing Turkish dip, akin to a thin tzatziki, featuring strained yogurt, grated cucumber, crushed garlic, and fresh herbs like dill and mint. It's often thinned with a touch of water, making it a perfect cooling accompaniment to grilled meats or a light, savory starter on its own.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Start by grating 1 large cucumber into a bowl. Gently squeeze out any excess water to prevent your cacık from becoming too watery. This step is crucial for a creamy, thick texture.
- 2
In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine 500 grams of full-fat strained yogurt (süzme yoğurt is ideal) with the squeezed cucumber.
- 3
Finely mince or crush 2-3 cloves of garlic, depending on your preference for garlic intensity, and add it to the yogurt and cucumber mixture.
- 4
Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill and 1 tablespoon of fresh mint leaves. Add these vibrant herbs to the bowl, enhancing both flavor and color.
- 5
Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of black pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- 6
Gradually whisk in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of cold water until the cacık reaches your desired consistency – traditionally it's thinner than Greek tzatziki, more like a drinkable soup or a light dip.
- 7
Pour the cacık into individual serving bowls. Drizzle generously with 1-2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top of each serving.
- 8
Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or a few mint leaves, and a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a little kick. Serve chilled as a refreshing side or appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of yogurt is best for making authentic Cacık?+
For authentic Cacık, use full-fat plain Turkish yogurt or a good quality, thick Greek yogurt. Its richness and tang provide the ideal texture and flavor profile.
How can I prevent my Cacık from becoming too watery?+
After grating or finely dicing the cucumber, lightly salt it and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible using a cheesecloth or paper towel before adding it to the yogurt.
What is the best way to prepare garlic for Cacık, and how much should I use?+
Use fresh, raw garlic that has been finely minced or crushed, as it provides a characteristic pungent flavor. Start with 1-2 cloves per 4 servings and adjust to your taste preference.
How long can Cacık be stored in the refrigerator, and should it be served cold?+
Cacık is always best served well-chilled and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavors tend to meld and improve over time.
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