🇹🇷 Turkey · Food
Haydari (Turkish Yogurt and Garlic Dip)
By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
Haydari is a refreshing and creamy Turkish meze, a delightful appetizer made from thick, strained yogurt, fresh garlic, and a hint of dried mint. Finished with a drizzle of hot, infused mint oil, it offers a cool, tangy, and aromatic counterpoint to richer dishes, perfect for dipping fresh bread.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
If using regular yogurt, begin by straining it for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge) using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl. This removes excess whey, making the yogurt wonderfully thick and creamy, similar to Greek yogurt. You should aim for about 1.5 cups of strained yogurt.
- 2
While the yogurt drains, prepare your garlic. Mince 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic very finely, or crush them to a paste using a mortar and pestle or the side of a knife. The finer the garlic, the better its flavor will integrate into the dip.
- 3
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the strained yogurt with the minced garlic and ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir everything together gently until well incorporated. Taste and adjust salt if needed, but remember the mint oil will add another layer of flavor.
- 4
Now, prepare the aromatic mint oil. In a small saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of good quality olive oil over low heat. Add 1 teaspoon of dried mint to the warm oil and let it sizzle gently for about 30 seconds until the mint becomes fragrant and slightly crisps – be careful not to burn it.
- 5
Immediately pour the hot, mint-infused olive oil directly over the yogurt and garlic mixture in the bowl. You'll hear a satisfying sizzle as the flavors meld. This step is crucial for unleashing the mint's aroma and giving Haydari its signature finish.
- 6
Stir the Haydari gently once more to lightly incorporate the mint oil, but don't overmix; you want some of the vibrant green mint to remain visible on top. The contrast of the cool yogurt and warm oil creates a lovely sensory experience.
- 7
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the Haydari for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to deepen and the dip to firm up slightly, making it even more refreshing. This resting period truly enhances the overall taste.
- 8
Serve your chilled Haydari as a meze (appetizer) alongside grilled meats, fresh vegetables, or with warm Turkish bread for dipping. Its cool, garlicky, and minty notes are incredibly invigorating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of yogurt is best for Haydari to achieve the desired consistency?+
For an authentic and thick Haydari, use a full-fat strained yogurt (süzme yoğurt). If unavailable, high-quality Greek yogurt can be a good substitute, offering a similar creamy texture.
How should the garlic be prepared for Haydari, and should it be raw or cooked?+
The garlic for Haydari should be raw and very finely minced or crushed to release its pungent flavor. This ensures a fresh, strong garlic presence that defines the dip.
Is it better to use fresh or dried mint in Haydari, and how should it be incorporated?+
Traditionally, dried mint is gently toasted in a little olive oil to enhance its aroma before being stirred into the dip. While fresh mint can be used as a garnish, dried mint provides a distinct, deeper flavor for the dip itself.
How long can Haydari be stored, and does making it ahead improve the flavor?+
Haydari benefits from chilling for at least a couple of hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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