Hassle-Free Tzatziki: Say Goodbye to Watery Dips!
If you’re short on time and can’t strain your yogurt overnight, this method guarantees a creamy and thick tzatziki within an hour. No more watery, flavourless dips! The secret? Paper towel. After preparing the tzatziki, before refrigerating, place a piece of paper towel over the top, ensuring it touches the surface of the dip. Over the hour, any excess water and liquid from the yogurt and cucumber will be drawn to the surface, making the paper towel damp. Remove the paper towel before serving, and you’ll be left with a deliciously creamy and thick tzatziki to enjoy.
Don’t forget to place your bowl on a tray or larger plate when using this method. The water absorbed by the paper towel can cause the sides of the bowl to drip, potentially leaving excess yogurt water in your fridge. This precaution helps contain any drips and keeps your fridge clean.
Who would have thought that all you need is paper towel?!
Serve it with Lemon Potatoes, Slow Cooked Lamb and Flat Bread for a complete meal.
Tzatziki
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber
- 2 cups full fat Greek natural yoghurt
- 1 large garlic clove, finely minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, minced
- black pepper to taste
- extra virgin olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
Grate the Cucumber
- Peel the cucumber and grate it into a bowl
- Sprinkle salt in the bowl to help draw out the liquid. Leave aside for a few minutes.
- After a few minutes, grab the grated cucumber and squeeze it to get rid of any excess water. Set aside
Make the Dip
- Combine the Yoghurt, Garlic, Pepper and Salt in a large bowl and mix well
- Add the grated cucumber that you squeezed the excess juice from earlier and add to the bowl.
- Add dill and mix
- Taste and add more salt, garlic and pepper to your liking.
Notes
- To enhance the flavours, refrigerate the tzatziki for at least one hour before serving. During this time, place a piece of paper towel on top of the tzatziki and press it down so it touches the dip. As the tzatziki chills, any excess water from the cucumber and yogurt will be absorbed by the paper towel, which may become damp and soggy – this is desired. When you’re ready to serve, remove the paper towel and drizzle olive oil over the top. This method will result in a consistently thick and creamy tzatziki every time.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How healthy is tzatziki?
Tzatziki can be a healthy choice as it’s made with nutrient-rich ingredients like Greek yogurt, cucumber, and garlic. It’s low in calories, high in protein, and contains probiotics for gut health.
How long does tzatziki last in the fridge?
I personally wouldn’t consume it post 4 days in the fridge.
How do I keep my tzatziki from getting watery?
The key to a thick and creamy tzatziki is removing as much water as possible from the cucumber. After grating the cucumber, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for a few minutes to draw out the water. Then, squeeze the grated cucumber with your hands or a cheesecloth to remove the excess liquid. Additionally, refrigerating it with a paper towel pressed on top, as mentioned in the notes, will help absorb any extra moisture.
Can I use low-fat yogurt?
While you can use low-fat yogurt, full-fat Greek yogurt is preferred for its rich and creamy texture. Low-fat yogurt might result in a thinner consistency, but if you’re looking to cut down on fat, just be prepared for a slightly different texture. You can always strain the low-fat yogurt with a cheesecloth to thicken it up a bit.
Can I make it without garlic?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of garlic or have dietary restrictions, you can omit it from the recipe. The tzatziki will still be delicious, though it will have a milder flavor. You could add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of lemon zest for a bit of a zing instead.
What can I do if my tzatziki is too thick?
If your tzatziki ends up too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit of extra virgin olive oil or a small amount of water. Add a little at a time, mixing well, until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it’s easier to add liquid than to take it away!
Can I freeze tzatziki?
Freezing tzatziki is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the yogurt and cucumber, resulting in a watery and grainy consistency once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it. If you do have leftovers, try using them in other dishes like a marinade for chicken or a creamy salad dressing.
Can I add other herbs?
Absolutely! While dill is traditional, you can experiment with other herbs like mint, parsley, or even a bit of fresh chives for a different flavor profile. Adding a combination of herbs can give your tzatziki a unique twist and make it your own signature dip. Just be sure to finely chop any additional herbs to keep the texture smooth and even.
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