Discover the refreshing flavors of Jajeek, a traditional Kurdish cucumber yogurt salad that’s both cooling and delicious. Perfect for a hot day, this salad combines crisp cucumbers with creamy yogurt, infused with a hint of garlic and mint, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal or a delightful snack on its own.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 7 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
- Sodium: 70 mg
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers (about 300 grams / 10.5 ounces), finely diced
- 500 grams (17.6 ounces) plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried mint)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Method of Preparation
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Peel if desired, and finely dice them.
- Mix the Yogurt: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, and olive oil. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the diced cucumbers and chopped mint to the yogurt mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Give the salad a final stir, then transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional mint leaves if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture.
- Garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference. For a milder taste, use one clove instead of two.
- Yogurt: Use full-fat yogurt for a creamier texture, but low-fat or Greek yogurt can also be used for a healthier option.
- Mint: Fresh mint leaves provide a more vibrant flavor, but dried mint works well if fresh isn’t available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?- Yes, Greek yogurt can be used for a thicker and creamier consistency.
- Absolutely! Diced tomatoes or grated carrots can be a great addition.
- Jajeek can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Yes, Jajeek is naturally gluten-free.
Enjoy the cool, crisp taste of Jajeek, a delightful cucumber yogurt salad that brings a touch of Middle Eastern flair to your table. Whether you serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a snack, Jajeek is sure to refresh and satisfy.