havuç tarator – This colorful dish is a Turkish classic; the sweetness of carrots pairs perfectly with garlic-infused yogurt for this easy-to-make dip. Serve it traditionally on a meze platter with other small plates like Sumac Onions, Zaalouk or Piyaz, and it’s a perfect side dish with grilled meat or fish.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil if you have access to it since it’s a central ingredient.
- Carrots: Carrots are the most popular vegetable used to make this recipe, and sautéing them draws out their natural sweetness, which is delicious. Other recipes also call for grated zucchini.
- Yogurt: I use Greek yogurt, but strained yogurt is a more traditional choice if you have access to it. For additional flavor, add two tablespoons of mayonnaise.
- Garlic: I suggest using four cloves, but don’t let my recipe tell you how much garlic to use- measure with your heart.
- Walnuts: Chopped walnuts are a perfect way to garnish the dip, or you can try pine nuts.
How to Make havuç tarator
The full recipe with measurements is in the recipe card below.
Warm olive oil in a saute pan over medium heat and add the grated carrots. Season with salt and cook until they become soft and tender, for about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk yogurt and garlic in a serving bowl.
Transfer the reserved carrots to the bowl and add the walnuts; stir to combine.
EXPERT TIPS
- Use a food processor with grates to reduce the preparation time.
- Adjust the consistency of the Turkish carrot yogurt dip using olive oil.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve havuç tarator as a part of a Turkish meze platter; it’s the perfect way to entertain guests or change up the dinner rotation with smaller plates. However you choose to enjoy the dip, here are some suggestions for what to pair with it.
- Marinated Olives
- Toasted Bread, Pita, Pita Chips
- Fresh Vegetables
- Salmon
- Köfte, Adana Kebab, Joojeh Kabob, Koobideh Kabob
- Piyaz
- Butter Bean Hummus
What to do with the Leftovers
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container; havuç tarator will keep for 2-3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
If you’re short on time, I recommend preparing the carrots the day before. Remove them from the fridge 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve to come to room temperature. Then, combine the carrots with the other ingredients.
How can I garnish havuç tarator?
• Olive Oil
• Toasted Walnuts, Pine Nuts
• Dill, Parsley
• Lemon
• Paprika, Red Pepper Flakes
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havuç tarator (Turkish Carrot Dip)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for garnish
- 8 carrots, peeled and grated
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup Greek yogurt, plain
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3 tablespoons walnuts, crushed
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a saute pan over medium heat and add the grated carrots. Season with salt and cook until they become soft and tender, for about 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, whisk yogurt and garlic in a serving bowl. Transfer the reserved carrots to the bowl and add the walnuts; stir to combine.
Notes
- Use a food processor with grates to reduce the preparation time.
- Adjust the consistency of the Turkish carrot yogurt dip using olive oil.
- The nutritional information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice.