Name: Cold Yogurt Soup Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486888H45M12S
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Persian
Ingredients: 2 cups Greek-style yogurt; 2 teaspoons crushed dried mint; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups cold water, or more as needed; 2 Persian cucumbers, diced; ½ cup chopped fresh mint; ½ cup chopped fresh parsley; ¼ cup raisins; ¼ cup chopped walnuts; 2 teaspoons ground dried Persian rose petals (optional); Ice cubes; 2 pita bread rounds, or to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Abdoogh Khiar is the ultimate summer comfort food, offering a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that are both hydrating and flavorful. The yogurt forms the creamy base, while cucumbers and herbs provide a refreshing contrast. The addition of raisins and walnuts adds natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch. It’s a simple, quick recipe that can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for when hunger strikes. Plus, the optional rose petals make it authentically Persian, elevating the dish with their beautiful aroma and delicate flavor. Whether you’re seeking a light lunch or a side dish for a summer gathering, this cold yogurt soup is the answer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups Greek-style yogurt
2 teaspoons crushed dried mint
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups cold water, or more as needed
2 Persian cucumbers, diced
½ cup chopped fresh mint
½ cup chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup raisins
¼ cup chopped walnuts
2 teaspoons ground dried Persian rose petals (optional)
Ice cubes
2 pita bread rounds, or to taste

Directions

Prepare the yogurt mixture: In a blender, combine the Greek yogurt, 2 teaspoons dried mint, and salt. Add enough of the 2 cups cold water to create a smooth, thin soup. It will thicken slightly once the bread is added.
Assemble the soup: Divide the diced cucumbers, fresh mint, parsley, raisins, and walnuts evenly among four bowls.
Add the yogurt mixture: Pour the yogurt mixture over the vegetables and herbs in each bowl.
Garnish and serve: Optionally, sprinkle the soup with ground rose petals. Add a few ice cubes to each bowl for extra chill.
Add bread: Tear the pita bread into small pieces and add them to each bowl. Let the bread soak for 5 to 7 minutes before serving cold.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Additional Time: 5 minutes (soaking time for bread)
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Herb mix: You can substitute the fresh mint and parsley with other fresh herbs like dill, basil, or cilantro, depending on your flavor preference.
Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter version, you can increase the amount of raisins or add a small drizzle of honey to the soup.
Add protein: For an extra protein boost, you could mix in some cooked chicken, grilled shrimp, or even chickpeas.
Non-dairy version: Use a non-dairy yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond milk yogurt, for a dairy-free option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The soup is best enjoyed cold, so it’s ideal for meal prep.
Reheating: This soup is typically served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just enjoy it directly from the fridge!

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?

Yes, regular cucumbers will work, but Persian cucumbers are less watery and have a thinner skin, making them perfect for this dish. Just make sure to remove the seeds if using regular cucumbers.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this soup benefits from being made ahead of time. It allows the flavors to meld, and you can store it in the fridge for a day or two before serving.

Can I use fresh mint and parsley instead of dried herbs?

Yes, you can use fresh mint and parsley if you prefer. Just chop them finely and use about 1 cup of each.

Can I skip the rose petals?

The rose petals are optional, but they do add an authentic Persian touch and a delicate floral aroma. If you can’t find food-safe rose petals, you can leave them out.

Is this soup vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is vegetarian, but not vegan because it uses Greek yogurt. To make it vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt.

Can I serve this soup without bread?

Yes, you can serve this soup without bread, but the bread soaks up the soup and adds to the texture. If you prefer, you can also try using a gluten-free flatbread or crackers.

How can I make this soup spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped green chili peppers to give the soup a bit of heat.

How do I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can reduce the amount of water, or add a little more yogurt. Be sure to adjust the salt and mint accordingly.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s not recommended to freeze this soup, as the yogurt may separate upon thawing. This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

What can I serve with this soup?

Abdoogh Khiar is typically served as a light meal or appetizer. It pairs well with flatbreads, fresh vegetables, or even a light salad.

Conclusion

Abdoogh Khiar is a wonderfully refreshing and light soup, perfect for those hot summer days when you want something cooling and hydrating. With its combination of creamy yogurt, fresh herbs, crunchy cucumbers, and sweet raisins, it’s a simple yet elegant dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Easy to prepare and ideal for meal prepping, this cold yogurt soup is a must-try for anyone who enjoys light, healthy, and flavorful meals.