Snezhanka/Tarator

Authentic Bulgarian Snezhanka/Tarator Recipe with Cucumber, Garlic, Salt and Dill

Region / culture: Bulgaria | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Snezhanka/Tarator is a traditional Bulgarian dish that can be enjoyed as a dip or a cold soup. It is a refreshing and light dish that is perfect for hot summer days.

History

Snezhanka/Tarator has been a staple in Bulgarian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Balkan region and has since spread to other parts of Eastern Europe. The dish is loved for its simplicity and fresh flavors.

Ingredients

500 g Greek Style yogurt
half a cucumber
1 finely chopped garlic clove
1 tbsp of salt
1 tbsp of olive oil
fresh dill - finely chopped

How to prepare

Snezhanka - dip style version. Peel the cucumber using a potato peeler, chop it into small pieces, squeeze out most of the water, season with salt, add the chopped garlic, olive oil, and dill, and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, add the yogurt and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tarator - cold soup version. Prepare it in the same way as Snezhanka, but do not squeeze out the water. Dilute the yogurt with 1 cup of cold water, stir well, and mix it with the seasoned cucumber. It is perfect for a hot summer's lunch.

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Mix in some grated garlic for extra flavor.
Top with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for a finishing touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to squeeze out most of the water from the cucumber when making the dip version of Snezhanka to prevent it from becoming too watery.

- For the cold soup version of Tarator, be sure to dilute the yogurt with cold water to achieve the perfect consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Snezhanka/Tarator with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a side dish to grilled meats.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Snezhanka/Tarator is to let the flavors meld together by chilling the dish for at least 1 hour before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find Greek-style yogurt, you can use regular yogurt and strain it through a cheesecloth to achieve a thicker consistency.

Make Ahead Tips

Snezhanka/Tarator can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Snezhanka/Tarator in a decorative bowl and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Snezhanka/Tarator with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Snezhanka/Tarator in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply stir well before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Snezhanka/Tarator typically contains around 150-200 calories, making it a light and healthy option.

Carbohydrates

Snezhanka/Tarator is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their carb intake.

Fats

The dish is relatively low in fats, with the main source of fat coming from the olive oil used in the recipe.

Proteins

Snezhanka/Tarator is a good source of protein, thanks to the Greek-style yogurt used in the recipe.

Vitamins and minerals

The dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the cucumber and dill.

Alergens

This dish contains dairy in the form of Greek-style yogurt, so it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Snezhanka/Tarator is a nutritious and low-calorie dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal.

Summary

Snezhanka/Tarator is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for summer. Whether enjoyed as a dip or a cold soup, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Snezhanka, also known as Tarator. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a bustling market in Bulgaria with my dear friend Maria. The sun beat down on us as we weaved through the colorful stalls, filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. As we browsed, Maria suddenly grabbed my arm and exclaimed, "Elena, you must try this delicious cold soup called Snezhanka! It's perfect for a hot day like today."

Intrigued, I followed Maria to a small food stand where a friendly elderly woman was serving up bowls of Snezhanka to eager customers. The woman smiled warmly at us and handed us each a bowl filled with a creamy white soup, garnished with cucumbers, dill, and walnuts. I took a hesitant sip, and my taste buds were immediately greeted with a burst of flavor - tangy yogurt, refreshing cucumbers, and a hint of garlic and herbs. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I turned to Maria with wide eyes and exclaimed, "This is incredible! How do they make it?" The woman overheard me and chuckled, "Ah, Snezhanka is a traditional Bulgarian dish, made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and herbs. Would you like the recipe, my dear?"

I nodded eagerly, and the woman graciously shared her family's recipe with me. She explained the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking the time to let the flavors meld together. As I listened to her instructions, I felt a spark of excitement ignite within me. I knew that I had to recreate this delicious dish in my own kitchen.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the necessary ingredients - creamy yogurt, crisp cucumbers, fragrant dill, and crunchy walnuts. I followed the woman's instructions carefully, combining the ingredients in a large bowl and letting the soup chill in the refrigerator for a few hours. The anticipation was almost unbearable as I waited for the flavors to develop and meld together.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I ladled a generous portion of Snezhanka into a bowl and took a tentative spoonful. The familiar flavors of yogurt, cucumbers, and garlic danced on my tongue, transporting me back to that sunny day at the market. I closed my eyes and savored the taste, feeling grateful for the kind woman who had shared her family's recipe with me.

From that day on, Snezhanka became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I shared the recipe with friends and family, delighting in their reactions as they tasted the refreshing cold soup for the first time. I experimented with different variations, adding a sprinkle of paprika for a spicy kick or a handful of fresh mint for an extra burst of freshness.

As the years passed, Snezhanka became more than just a recipe to me - it was a connection to my roots, a reminder of the vibrant flavors and traditions of Bulgaria. Whenever I made a batch of the cold soup, I could almost hear the bustling sounds of the market, feel the warm sun on my skin, and taste the love and care that went into each bowl.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will create your own memories and traditions with Snezhanka. May it bring you joy, comfort, and a taste of Bulgaria's rich culinary heritage. And who knows, perhaps one day you too will stumble upon a new recipe that captures your heart and taste buds, just like Snezhanka did for me.