Transform your snacks with our Turkish Yogurt Dip, where ground nuts meet creamy perfection. Ideal for dipping, spreading, and enhancing the flavors of your favorite dishes!
I shared a quick behind-the-scenes shot of this recipe on Instagram the day I made it, and three of my friends texted me to ask if there was any left and if they could come over. That is how good this dip tastes.
This Turkish Yogurt Dip recipe comes together so quickly; there’s really no reason why you can’t make it every day. You’re going to want to once you get a taste of the heavenly goodness that is this Turkish dip recipe. I made this Turkish Yogurt recipe the same day as I made carrot fritters and a tomato-walnut salad, so I wanted to save all three of the dishes for dinner and have myself a little Turkish feast.
Table of Contents
History of Turkish Yogurt Dip
Turkish Nut and Yogurt Dip, also known as ‘Cevizli Yoğurt’, has a rich history in Turkey. This dip is a richer, thicker dip primarily made from yogurt blended with ground nuts (like walnuts or pine nuts), garlic, and sometimes herbs or spices. This dip has a more robust and nuttier flavor.
On the other hand, Turkish Cacik and Turkish Nut and Yogurt Dip, while both yogurt-based, have distinct differences in their ingredients and flavor profiles. Turkish Cacik is a refreshing yogurt dip or soup, often containing grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like dill or mint. It’s typically served chilled and is known for its cooling, light, and fresh qualities.
Reasons to Love This Dip
- Turkish Nut and Yogurt Dip combines the tanginess of yogurt with the earthy taste of nuts.
- Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious alternative to traditional dips.
- I love that this side dish is versatile. It pairs perfectly with dishes like eggplant salad, baba ganoush, and acili ezme for a diverse and flavorful Mediterranean spread.
Recipe Ingredients
- Walnut Halves: Adding a rich, nutty flavor and a crunchy texture.
- Plain Full-Fat Greek Yogurt: Offering a creamy, tangy base that balances the other flavors.
- Dried Dill: Giving a subtle, herby flavor that complements the creamy and nutty elements.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Variations
- Add Cheese: Try adding crumbled feta cheese to the Turkish Nut and Yogurt Dip. The feta adds a tangy, salty dimension that complements the creamy yogurt and earthy nuts
- Fresh Dill Option: Use 1 Tablespoon of fresh dill in place of the 1 teaspoon of dried dill for a more vibrant and slightly stronger dill flavor.
- Garnish Options: Enhance your Turkish Nut and Yogurt Dip with these garnishes: a drizzle of olive oil for richness, fresh herbs like fresh mint leaves or parsley for color, extra toasted nuts for crunch, a sprinkle of paprika or sumac for spice, and thinly sliced cucumber or radish for freshness. These additions elevate both the flavor and presentation.
How to Make Turkish Yogurt Dip
Step #1: Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat, shaking frequently, until glossy and lightly browned (1-2 minutes).
Step #2: Place the toasted pine nuts, walnuts, and garlic in the bowl of a food processor or blender. Pulse until ground.
Step #3: Transfer the nut and garlic mixture to a large bowl. Fold in the Greek yoghurt, olive oil, dill, and salt. I might even suggest that you drizzle a bit more olive oil on top for good measure.
Expert Tip
For an extra layer of flavor, toast the garlic clove along with the nuts. This will mellow the garlic’s sharpness and infuse it with a subtle smokiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, adding a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the dip with a fresh, zesty flavor. You can also add dried mint for an aromatic, herby note. Both ingredients will add layers of flavor.
This dip pairs excellently with a variety of dishes. It complements the flavors of kabobs and grilled chicken beautifully, adding a creamy, nutty element. It also works well with bean dishes, providing a rich contrast to their earthy flavors.
Yes, plain yogurt can be used as a substitute for Greek yogurt. However, it’s less thick, so the dip might be a bit runnier. For best results, strain the plain yogurt through a cheesecloth to remove excess liquid and achieve a consistency closer to Greek yogurt.
Storage Info
Store the Turkish Nut and Yoghurt Dip leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it will stay good for up to 5 days. Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture and consistency of the yogurt and nuts.
Reheating isn’t necessary since this dip is best enjoyed cold. If it separates slightly after refrigeration, simply give it a gentle stir to recombine the ingredients before serving.
Turkish Nut and Yogurt Dip Recipe
RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 1/2 cup walnut halves
- 1 large garlic clove - peeled
- 2/3 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat, shaking frequently, until glossy and lightly browned (1-2 minutes).
- Place the toasted pine nuts, walnuts, and garlic in the bowl of a food processor or blender. Pulse until ground.
- Transfer the nut and garlic mixture to a large bowl. Fold in the Greek yoghurt, olive oil, dill, and salt. I might even suggest that you drizzle a bit more olive oil on top for good measure.
NOTES
Nutrition
I tried this recipe over the weekend and my family loves it! Thanks again for this delicious recipe, Linda!
Absolutely delicious! My guests are going to love it!
I recently tasted this dip in a Turkish restaurant last week, and I have been craving it ever since. I plan on making it this weekend!
wonderful recipe ! I will soon try this 🙂