Mast-o Khiar
A refreshing Persian appetizer of thick yogurt, crisp cucumber, mint, sweet raisins and walnuts — a classic accompaniment to Iranian dishes.
Ingredients
- thick plain yogurt500 g
- cucumber300 g
- dried mint2 tsp
- raisins40 g
- walnuts50 g
- salt1 to taste
- ground black pepper1 to taste
- dried edible rose petals1 pinch
Instructions
Cut 300 g cucumber into small cubes, about 5 mm, mix with 1 tsp salt and leave for 5 minutes to let the cucumber release excess moisture.
Transfer the cucumber to a sieve, let the liquid drain off, and gently press it with a spoon without mashing it into a puree.
In a bowl, stir 500 g plain thick yogurt until smooth.
Add the cucumber to the yogurt, along with 2 tsp dried mint, 40 g raisins, 50 g coarsely chopped walnuts, black pepper and salt to taste; mix gently.
Cover the bowl and chill the mast-o khiar for at least 30 minutes to let the mint and dried fruit release their flavor.
Before serving, stir once more, transfer to a shallow bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of dried rose petals, and serve cold as an appetizer or side dish with kebabs, rice and stews.
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