Traditional Bulgarian Tarator: Cold Yogurt and Cucumber Soup
Tarator is Bulgaria's cold yogurt and cucumber soup, loosened with icy water and flavored with garlic, dill, walnuts and sunflower oil. It should be pourable, chilled and speckled with cucumber and finely crushed walnut rather than thick like a dip.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
A polished English infographic for the whole cooking flow, paired with the full written recipe below for detail and SEO.
Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Whisk the yogurt until completely smooth. Gradually whisk in the ice-cold water until the soup is light and pourable, not as thick as a yogurt dip.
- 2
Stir in the cucumber, garlic, dill, most of the crushed walnuts, sunflower oil and salt.
- 3
Cover and chill for 30 minutes so the garlic and dill flavor the yogurt. Stir and adjust with a little more cold water or salt if needed.
- 4
Ladle into cold bowls. Finish with the reserved finely crushed walnuts, a few drops of sunflower oil and optional crushed ice. Serve very cold.
Cook notes
Tips
Use unsweetened yogurt with a clean tang.
Crush the walnuts finely so they enrich the soup without forming large chunks.
Add the water gradually because yogurt thickness varies.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- If the soup becomes too thick after a day in the fridge, you can add a little water to adjust the consistency.
Substitutions
- You can use low-fat yogurt if you're looking for a lighter option.
- A small mild cucumber may replace a large cucumber.
What to Serve With
- Fresh crusty bread.
- Roasted vegetables on the side.
- A light green salad.
Common Mistakes
- Leaving out the walnuts or sunflower oil.
- Serving it as a thick dip instead of a pourable soup.
- Failing to include the chilling time.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt will give a thicker texture but will work well in the recipe.
How long can I store leftover Tarator?
You can store leftover Tarator in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Is Tarator served hot or cold?
Tarator is traditionally served cold.
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