Mast-o Khiar (Persian Cucumber Yogurt Dip Recipe) Recipe
Mast-o Khiar is a refreshing Persian cucumber yogurt dip combining cool, crisp cucumbers with creamy Greek yogurt, walnuts, sweet raisins, and fragrant herbs. This easy no-cook recipe is perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, featuring a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and herbaceous flavors with a touch of garlic and spice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dip
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Persian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 Persian cucumbers
- Kosher or sea salt (to taste)
Dairy
- 1 ½ cups Greek yogurt
Nuts and Fruits
- ½ cup walnuts – roughly chopped
- ¼ cup raisins – soaked for 15 minutes
Herbs and Spices
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill – finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried mint
- 1-2 garlic cloves – finely minced
- Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
For Garnish
- Chopped walnuts
- Raisins
- Fresh dill fronds
- Dried mint
- Rose petals (optional)
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Dice the Persian cucumbers finely and place them in a bowl. Lightly salt the cucumbers and stir well. Let them sit for 15 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their water. After that, spoon away or absorb the excess liquid with a clean paper towel.
- Assemble the Dip: To the same bowl with the drained cucumbers, add the Greek yogurt, roughly chopped walnuts, soaked raisins, finely chopped fresh dill, dried mint, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and fresh cracked black pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to combine.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dip and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed to suit your preference.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the dip to a serving dish. Garnish with extra chopped walnuts, raisins, fresh dill fronds, dried mint, rose petals (if using), and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Refer to the recipe photos in the original post for detailed step-by-step visuals.
- Yogurt: Greek-style yogurt is preferred for creaminess; plain yogurt can be used but ensure it is not too runny to avoid a watery dip.
- Cucumbers: Persian cucumbers are ideal; if substituting with English cucumbers, trim seeds and peel if desired to reduce excess moisture.
- Nuts: Walnuts preserve the traditional flavor, but cashews or almonds can be substituted if allergic or unavailable.
- Herbs: Fresh dill imparts vibrant flavor; dried mint complements well. Fresh mint can be used as an alternative.
- Raisins: Soak raisins for 15 minutes to plump them and add a nice chew and sweetness. Sultanas or other varieties work too.
- Rose Petals: Optional garnish adding a subtle floral note and elegant appearance; omit if unavailable.
