Bulgarian Tarator Soup

Bulgarian Tarator Soup – a refreshing delicacy, perfect for warm days, combining the fresh flavors of vegetables with the creaminess of yogurt. I had the chance to enjoy this soup at our neighbors to the south, and since then, it has become one of my favorite recipes. It is simple, quick, and extremely tasty, and the nutritional benefits are a wonderful bonus, especially if you are looking for dishes that are easy to include in your diet.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 long cucumber (Fabio type)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 400 g yogurt (I recommend a mix of cow, buffalo, and sheep yogurt for a richer flavor)
- 300 ml sweet milk
- Salt (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the cucumber very well. If you prefer, you can peel it, but I recommend using it with the skin for added nutrients and a more interesting texture. Grate the cucumber on the large grater. This way, it will release its fresh juice, which will give a wonderful taste to the soup.

2. The garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and you can either grate or finely chop them. Fresh garlic adds a note of flavor, so don’t skip it! If you are a big garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a glass or ceramic bowl (preferably, as it does not react with the ingredients), combine the grated cucumber, garlic, and salt to taste. Mix well to allow the flavors to blend.

4. Adding the yogurt: Now is the time to add the yogurt. Choose a quality one that is creamy and tasty. Mix the yogurt with the olive oil, then pour it over the cucumber and garlic mixture. The olive oil not only adds a delicious taste but also healthy benefits.

5. The milk: Pour the sweet milk over the mixture and gently stir with a spoon until well combined. This will give the soup a liquid and pleasant texture, perfect for serving cold.

6. Cooling the soup: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for one hour. This is the time for the flavors to develop and combine perfectly. If you want to add an extra chill, don’t hesitate to put a few ice cubes in the soup just before serving.

Serving: When ready, pour the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh dill. You can accompany it with toasted bread or croutons for a pleasant contrast of textures. If you want to impress, serve it alongside a glass of mineral water or a summer cocktail with fresh fruits.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a crunchy note, you can add chopped walnut, as I have encountered in some variations of the recipe.
- This soup is ideal for serving on hot summer days, but you can enjoy it anytime you crave a light and refreshing dish.
- Tarator can be an excellent choice for an appetizer at a party or festive meal, as it is so easy to prepare and has an attractive appearance.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in nutrients, thanks to the fresh ingredients. Cucumber is an excellent source of water, vitamins, and minerals, while yogurt is full of probiotics, great for digestive health. Dill adds a note of flavor and is also known for its antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use low-fat yogurt? Yes, you can use low-fat yogurt for a lighter version, but choose one with a good protein content.
2. Can Tarator be made with other vegetables? You can experiment by adding grated carrots or bell peppers for a more colorful version.
3. How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

In conclusion, Bulgarian Tarator soup is a simple and delicious recipe that will refresh you and delight your taste buds. It is perfect for any occasion and is quickly prepared without much effort. So, don’t hesitate and enjoy this wonderful soup!