Mast-o Khiar (Persian Yoghurt & Cucumber Dip)
Mast-o Khiar is a delicious Persian dip made with yoghurt and cucumber. It is creamy, cool, and full of fresh flavours. This traditional dish is very popular in Iranian cuisine. It is simple, healthy, and quick to prepare. Many families enjoy Mast-o Khiar with everyday meals, and it also works great as a party appetiser. If you love easy and refreshing side dishes, this recipe is perfect for you.
A Classic Middle Eastern Favourite
Mast-o Khiar is a staple at Persian gatherings. It is served alongside rice dishes, grilled meats, and kebabs. You can also enjoy it with flatbread like pita or lavash. The combination of smooth yoghurt and crunchy cucumber creates a wonderful texture. A bit of mint adds a fragrant and cooling taste. Some versions include raisins or walnuts for extra flavour and crunch. This makes Mast-o Khiar a versatile dip that you can customise to your taste.
Healthy and Nutritious
This dip is not only tasty but also very healthy. Yoghurt is rich in protein and probiotics. It helps with digestion and supports a healthy gut. Cucumbers are hydrating and refreshing. They add vitamins and minerals to the dish. Mast-o Khiar is also low in calories, so it is a guilt-free snack or side dish. It is a great option for people who want to enjoy something light and nourishing.
Easy to Make Anytime
One of the best things about Mast-o Khiar is how simple it is to prepare. It uses ingredients that many people already have in their kitchen. All you need is yoghurt, cucumber, mint, and a little salt. Optional ingredients like raisins and walnuts can take it to the next level. With just a few minutes of mixing, you have a delicious dish ready to enjoy. It is perfect for busy days, picnics, and family meals.
Perfect for All Occasions
This yoghurt and cucumber dip fits into any meal plan. Serve it as a refreshing appetiser, a dip for vegetables and chips, or a cooling side with spicy foods. It keeps well in the refrigerator, so you can prepare it in advance for parties and gatherings. Its creamy and fresh flavour makes it a crowd-pleaser for both adults and kids.
Mast-o Khiar brings a cool, tangy freshness that perfectly balances the warm, earthy flavours of mujaddara — and don’t forget to check out the mujaddara recipe!
Why You Will Love Mast-o Khiar
- Quick and easy to make
- Light, creamy, and refreshing
- Full of nutrients and probiotics
- Works with many different meals
- Customizable with fun toppings
Try More Delicious Dips and Sauces
If you enjoy simple and flavourful dips like Mast-o Khiar, you will love exploring more sauces and side dishes from around the world. They can add excitement and variety to your meals. Check out our collection of tasty dips and sauces to discover your next favourite recipe!
Mast-o Khiar (Persian Yoghurt & Cucumber Dip)
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yoghurt Greek or strained yoghurt works best
- Half of one cucumber finely diced or grated
- 1 tsp dried mint or 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
- 2-3 tbsps raisins optional, traditional in some regions
- 1 tbsp chopped walnuts optional, for texture
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: dried rose petals chopped mint, or olive oil drizzle
Instructions
- Wash, peel (optional), and finely dice or grate the cucumber. If it’s very watery, squeeze out a bit of the liquid.Half of one cucumber
- In a bowl, whisk the yoghurt until smooth.1 cup plain yoghurt
- Add cucumber, mint and any optional ingredients like raisins or walnuts. Mix well.1 tsp dried mint, 2-3 tbsps raisins, 1 tbsp chopped walnuts
- Season with salt and pepper.Salt and pepper to taste
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving — it tastes best cold and allows the flavors to blend.
- Top with a sprinkle of dried mint or rose petals and a drizzle of olive oil if you like.Optional garnish: dried rose petals
- Serve as a side dish with kebabs, rice dishes (like chelo or polo), or as a dip with flatbread.
- It’s also perfect as a light snack on its own in summer.
Serving Tips
- Mast-o Khiar is best served cold and pairs wonderfully with:
- Persian rice dishes, Kebabs, Flatbreads like lavash or pita, As part of a mezze spread.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Mast-o Khiar is a traditional Persian dip made with yoghurt and cucumber, often flavoured with mint and garnished with nuts or raisins.
Yes! Greek or strained yoghurt gives a thicker texture, but regular yoghurt works fine—just drain excess liquid if needed.
No, those are optional additions used in some regional variations. You can keep it simple with just yoghurt, cucumber, and mint.
It generally keeps well for up to 2–3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Absolutely! It actually tastes better after chilling, as the flavours blend.
It pairs wonderfully with kebabs, rice dishes, Persian stews, or flatbreads like lavash and pita.
Yes! It’s protein-rich, hydrating, and filled with probiotics from the yoghurt.
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