Name: Bulgarian Tarator (Cold Cucumber Soup) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 2 cucumbers; 1 container plain yogurt; ¼ cup fresh dill; 4 cloves garlic; 2 tsp olive oil; salt; 1 tbsp water; 10 ice cubes

Bulgarian Tarator, a delightful cold cucumber soup, is a classic dish that is perfect for cooling down in hot summer months. It's a blend of fresh cucumbers, yogurt, dill, garlic, and olive oil, served chilled with a few ice cubes for an added refreshing touch. This simple, yet delicious soup is light on the stomach and pleasing to the palate.

Photos of Bulgarian Tarator (Cold Cucumber Soup) Recipe

For this Bulgarian Tarator recipe, all ingredients are pretty standard and can be easily found in most supermarkets. However, do pay special attention to the yogurt. Opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt to maintain the authentic taste of the soup. The freshness of the cucumbers and dill also plays a significant role in the overall flavour, so make sure to choose the freshest produce.

Ingredients for Bulgarian Tarator: Cold Cucumber Soup Recipe

Cucumbers: The main ingredient of the soup, they provide a fresh and crunchy texture.

Plain yogurt: Acts as a base for the soup, giving it a creamy and tangy taste.

Fresh dill: Adds a distinct and refreshing flavour to the soup.

Garlic: Enhances the soup with a hint of pungency and warmth.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic, it also adds a nice flavour to the soup.

Salt: Enhances all the flavours in the soup.

Water: Adjusts the consistency of the soup to your liking.

Ice cubes: They make the soup extra refreshing, perfect for hot summer days.

One reader, Kristal Hornsby says:

This Bulgarian tarator recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh cucumbers, yogurt, and dill creates a refreshing and light soup that's perfect for hot summer days. The flavors are so vibrant and the texture is incredibly smooth. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious cold soup.

Kristal Hornsby

Techniques Required for Making Cold Cucumber Soup

How to prepare the cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and peel them if desired. Then, slice them into thin rounds or dice them into small pieces, depending on your preference.

How to whisk the yogurt: Use a fork to vigorously whisk the plain yogurt until it becomes smooth and liquefied, ensuring there are no lumps in the mixture.

How to mince the garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince them using a sharp knife. You can also use a garlic press for a finer texture.

How to chill the soup: After preparing the soup, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to ensure it is thoroughly chilled before serving.

How to serve the soup: Ladle the chilled soup into serving bowls and add about 2 ice cubes to each bowl to keep it cold and refreshing.

How To Make Bulgarian Tarator (Cold Cucumber Soup)

Bulgarian Tarator is a refreshing soup made with cucumbers. The perfect dish for hot weather. This dish is usually served in place of salad or appetizers.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cucumbers,peeled and cut into small cubes
16ozplain yogurt
¼cupfresh dill,minced
4garlic cloves,pressed
2tspolive oil
salt,to taste
1tbspwater,or as needed
10ice cubes,or as needed

Instructions

Place cucumbers in a large bowl. Whisk yogurt in a separate bowl using a fork until yogurt is smooth and liquefied; pour over cucumbers.
Add dill, garlic, oil, and salt to cucumber mixture; toss to coat. Stir in enough water to reach desired consistency. Refrigerate until chilled for at least 30 minutes.
Ladle soup into serving bowls; add about 2 ice cubes to each bowl.

Nutrition

Calories: 93.08kcal
Fat: 4.90g
Saturated Fat: 2.20g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.13g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.32g
Carbohydrates: 9.42g
Fiber: 0.66g
Sugar: 6.26g
Protein: 4.10g
Cholesterol: 11.79mg
Sodium: 508.63mg
Calcium: 134.70mg
Potassium: 330.62mg
Iron: 0.47mg
Vitamin A: 32.23µg
Vitamin C: 4.95mg

Key Technique for Perfecting Bulgarian Tarator

When preparing the cucumbers for the Bulgarian Tarator, it's best to peel them first. This not only improves the texture of the soup, but also helps to blend the flavors more effectively. Additionally, if you want a smoother consistency for your soup, you can opt to blend the mixture before chilling it. Just remember to add the dill after blending to maintain its fresh and vibrant flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Bulgarian Tarator

Prep ahead: Chop the cucumbers, garlic, and dill in advance to save time when assembling the soup.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly blend the ingredients together for a smooth and consistent texture.

Double the batch: Make a larger quantity and store the extra soup in the fridge for a quick and refreshing meal later in the week.

Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before chilling and adjust the seasoning as needed to save time later.

Quick chill: Place the soup in the freezer for a few minutes to speed up the chilling process if you're short on time.

Substitute Ingredients For Bulgarian Tarator (Cold Cucumber Soup) Recipe

cucumbers - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor to cucumbers, making it a suitable replacement in the cold soup.
plain yogurt - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a thicker consistency and tangier flavor, which can enhance the creaminess and taste of the soup.
fresh dill - Substitute with fresh mint: Fresh mint can provide a refreshing and aromatic flavor similar to dill, adding a unique twist to the soup.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a milder and more evenly distributed garlic flavor in the soup.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable alternative for olive oil in the recipe.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a slightly different flavor profile and texture to the soup.
ice cubes - Substitute with chilled water: Chilled water can be used to maintain the cold temperature of the soup without diluting the flavors, similar to using ice cubes.

How to Beautifully Present Cold Cucumber Soup

Elevate the plating: Arrange the cucumber soup in a shallow bowl, ensuring the vibrant green color of the soup is prominently displayed. Use a delicate hand to create a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle finely chopped dill over the soup, creating a beautiful contrast against the creamy base. This adds a touch of elegance and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to the soup, creating a visually stunning pattern. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a luxurious touch to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the simplicity of the dish by leaving some areas of the bowl bare, allowing the soup to be the focal point. This minimalist approach highlights the sophistication of the dish.
Temperature contrast: Serve the soup in chilled bowls to maintain its refreshing quality. The contrast between the cold soup and the warmth of the bowl adds an element of surprise and sophistication to the dining experience.
Attention to detail: Ensure the rims of the serving bowls are impeccably clean, presenting a polished and professional appearance to the judges. Every detail matters in achieving a flawless presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Bulgarian Tarator

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently processing cucumbers, garlic, and dill for the Bulgarian tarator soup.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the yogurt, dill, garlic, and oil with the cucumbers to create the base of the cold cucumber soup.

Interesting Facts About Bulgarian Tarator

Bulgarian tarator is a traditional cold soup that is popular in Bulgaria during the summer months. It is a refreshing and healthy dish that is perfect for hot weather.

Is Making Cold Cucumber Soup at Home Cost-Effective?

This Bulgarian tarator recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, cucumbers and yogurt, are affordable and readily available. The addition of garlic and dill enhances the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. This refreshing cold cucumber soup is not only budget-friendly but also nutritious, making it a great choice for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10, making it an excellent option for a delicious and economical dish. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is Bulgarian Tarator Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Bulgarian Tarator cold cucumber soup recipe is a refreshing and nutritious dish that offers several health benefits. The main ingredients, cucumbers and yogurt, are low in calories and high in essential nutrients. Cucumbers are rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium, while yogurt provides probiotics that support digestive health and boost the immune system. The addition of fresh dill and garlic further enhances the nutritional value of the soup, as dill is a good source of antioxidants and garlic has anti-inflammatory properties.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Use low-fat or non-fat yogurt instead of regular yogurt to reduce the overall calorie and fat content of the soup
Increase the amount of fresh dill to boost the antioxidant content and add more flavor without additional calories
Reduce the amount of salt used or replace it with a low-sodium alternative to help control sodium intake
Add more vegetables, such as chopped bell peppers or tomatoes, to increase the fiber content and provide a wider range of vitamins and minerals

To make the soup even more nutritious, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds to add healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch
Serve the soup with a side of whole-grain bread or crackers to provide complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper to boost metabolism and add a subtle kick of heat
Experiment with adding other herbs, such as mint or basil, to create new flavor profiles and introduce additional health benefits

Editor's Thoughts on This Refreshing Bulgarian Soup

This Bulgarian tarator recipe is a refreshing and delightful cold soup that is perfect for a hot summer day. The combination of cool cucumbers, tangy yogurt, and aromatic dill creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of garlic adds a subtle kick, while the ice cubes provide a refreshing chill. This dish is simple to prepare and is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and creamy texture. It's a wonderful way to showcase the fresh flavors of summer and is a great addition to any meal.

Enhance Your Bulgarian Tarator (Cold Cucumber Soup) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Halloumi Skewers: Marinate halloumi cheese in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before grilling to perfection.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Blend chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, and garlic for a creamy and flavorful dip.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Combine cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, then drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish.

Watermelon Feta Salad: Toss cubed watermelon with crumbled feta, mint, and a balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory salad.

Baklava: Layer phyllo dough with a mixture of nuts and honey, then bake until golden and crispy for a decadent dessert.

Similar Chilled Soups to Try

Greek Salad: A refreshing and colorful salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, feta cheese, and olives, tossed in a simple vinaigrette dressing.

Mango Salsa: A sweet and spicy salsa made with fresh mango, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice, perfect for topping grilled fish or chicken.

Chicken Stir-Fry: A quick and easy stir-fry made with tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, snap peas, and a flavorful sauce, served over steamed rice.

Berry Parfait: A light and creamy dessert made with layers of Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and granola, perfect for a healthy and satisfying treat.

Tomato Basil Soup: A comforting and classic soup made with ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a touch of cream, best served with a grilled cheese sandwich.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Bulgarian Tarator

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich, cheesy sauce. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and flavorful stir fry with thinly sliced beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce. Pair it with steamed rice for a delicious and balanced dinner option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of decadence.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, adorned with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of sweet strawberry sauce.

Why trust this Bulgarian Tarator (Cold Cucumber Soup) Recipe:

This recipe for Bulgarian tarator is a refreshing and authentic dish that embodies the flavors of Bulgarian cuisine. The use of cucumbers and yogurt ensures a light and creamy texture, while the addition of fresh dill and garlic infuses the soup with vibrant and aromatic flavors. The incorporation of olive oil adds a subtle richness, and the inclusion of ice cubes guarantees a chilled and invigorating experience. Trust in the simplicity and tradition of this recipe to transport your taste buds to the heart of Bulgaria.

Share your thoughts on this refreshing Bulgarian Tarator (Cold Cucumber Soup) recipe in the World Cuisines forum section. Let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this classic dish!

FAQ:

What is the best way to serve Bulgarian tarator?

The best way to serve Bulgarian tarator is chilled, as it is a refreshing and cooling soup. It can be served as a starter or as a light meal on a hot day.

Can I make Bulgarian tarator in advance?

Yes, Bulgarian tarator can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Can I adjust the consistency of the soup?

Absolutely! You can adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more or less water, depending on your preference. If you like a thicker soup, use less water; for a lighter consistency, add more water.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for regular yogurt. Just be aware that Greek yogurt has a thicker consistency, so you may need to adjust the amount of water to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I make this soup without garlic?

While garlic adds a distinctive flavor to the soup, you can certainly omit it if you prefer a milder taste. You can also adjust the amount of garlic to suit your personal taste preferences.