MAST-O KHIAR (PERSIAN CUCUMBER AND HERB YOGURT)

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Mast-o Khiar (Persian Cucumber and Herb Yogurt) image

Yogurt, both plain and with cucumbers, is everywhere on Iranian tables - the thicker and sourer, the better. Mast-o khiar is an everyday side similar to Indian raita or Greek tzatziki, but raisins, walnuts and rose petals elevate this version of the dish, adding a host of different flavors and textures. Dice, rather than grate, the cucumbers to keep them from getting watery, and don't skip the dried mint and dried dill, which add dimension to the fresh herbs.

Provided by Samin Nosrat

Categories     easy, quick, condiments, salads and dressings, side dish

Time 20m

Yield About 4 cups

Number Of Ingredients 10

1/4 cup black or golden raisins
3 Persian cucumbers (about 1/2 pound)
24 ounces Greek yogurt or labneh (3 cups)
2 tablespoons any combination of finely chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, basil, tarragon or dill
1 garlic clove, finely grated or pounded into a smooth paste with a pinch of salt
Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
3/4 teaspoon ground or crumbled dried rose petals (optional)
1 teaspoon dried mint
1 teaspoon dried dill
3 tablespoons roughly chopped toasted walnut pieces

Steps:

  • In a small bowl, submerge the raisins in boiling water to plump for 10 minutes, then drain well.
  • Remove alternating stripes of peel on cucumbers and trim ends. Dice cucumbers into 1/4-inch pieces and place in a large bowl with raisins, yogurt, fresh herbs, garlic, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper and, if using, half the rose petals. Using your fingers to break up any large pieces, gently grind the dried mint and dried dill into the bowl. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
  • Just before serving, stir in the walnuts and transfer to serving bowl. Garnish with remaining rose petals, if using. Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Angel Lettie Ngondo
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This is a great recipe for a healthy and refreshing snack. It's also a great way to use up leftover yogurt.


B Dog
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This dish is a great way to cool down on a hot summer day. It's also a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables.


Sayed Asim
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I've made this recipe several times and it's always a hit. It's a great way to impress your guests with a simple but delicious dish.


Jawadboss
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This recipe is a great way to use up leftover herbs. It's also a great way to add some extra flavor to your yogurt.


shahzad jalbani
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I love the combination of cucumber and yogurt in this dish. It's a refreshing and flavorful way to start a meal.


Tichaona Pasipanodya
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This is a great recipe for a quick and easy snack or side dish. It's also a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables.


Mehmol khan
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I'm always looking for new ways to use cucumbers, and this recipe is a great one. It's a delicious and healthy way to cool down on a hot day.


Ariel Murray
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This dish is so refreshing and flavorful. It's the perfect appetizer or light lunch.


Anold Ntsike
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I've made this recipe several times and it always turns out perfect. It's a great way to use up leftover yogurt.


Harbiyar Baloch
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This recipe is a staple in my household. It's a healthy and refreshing snack or side dish.


Constance Godfrey
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I love the simplicity of this dish. It's a great way to showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients.


Rubina Shahid
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This is my new go-to recipe for summer gatherings. It's so easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.


Jasmine McClain
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I'm not usually a fan of yogurt-based dishes, but this one was surprisingly delicious. The cucumber and herbs added a nice touch of freshness.


Enhle Mkhwanazi
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This Mast-o-Khiar recipe was a hit at my last party! The combination of cucumber, yogurt, and herbs was refreshing and flavorful.