Nonnas Authentic Tzatziki Food

NONNA'S AUTHENTIC TZATZIKI RECIPE

Steps:

• Peel the cucumbers, and then grate them. Add the grated cucumber to a waiting colander set in a sink.
• Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt over the cucumbers, stir, and then let them sit (undisturbed) for 15 minutes.
• After 15 minutes, using the back of a sturdy wooden spoon press the cucumbers against the edges of the colander to release excess water. Do this several times.
• To a mixing bowl, add the sour cream, yogurt, garlic, and oil. Whisk everything together until evenly combined.
• Using the wooden spoon, fold in the cucumbers.
• The authentic tzatziki can be served as is, or stored until ready to use.

TZATZIKI

Steps:

• Line a strainer with a clean kitchen towel and place over a bowl. Grate the cucumber on the large holes of a box grater. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt over the cucumbers and toss together by hand. Put the salted cucumber into the towel lined strainer and let sit for 10 minutes. Use the kitchen towel to squeeze out any remaining moisture.
• Stir the cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt together in a medium bowl until combined. Gently fold in the dill and mint. Serve drizzled with more olive oil.

TZATZIKI

Steps:

• Place the yogurt in a cheesecloth or paper towel-lined sieve and set it over a bowl. Grate the cucumber and toss it with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt; place it in another sieve, and set it over another bowl. Place both bowls in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 hours so the yogurt and cucumber can drain.
• Transfer the thickened yogurt to a large bowl. Squeeze as much liquid from the cucumber as you can and add the cucumber to the yogurt. Mix in the sour cream, vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, dill, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. You can serve it immediately, but I prefer to allow the tzatziki to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours for the flavors to blend. Serve chilled or at room temperature.