Welcome to the rich and flavorful world of Bulgarian cuisine! Bursting with unique and delicious dishes, one standout creation is the Bulgarian Yogurt Soup. This culinary masterpiece combines the tanginess of Bulgarian yogurt with a medley of fresh herbs and vegetables, resulting in a creamy and satisfying soup that is both refreshing and nourishing. Join us on a culinary journey as we unravel the secrets to crafting this traditional Bulgarian delight that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Eastern Europe. Get ready to savor the goodness of wholesome ingredients and embrace the warmth of Bulgarian hospitality in every spoonful. Let's dive into the simple yet enchanting recipe of Bulgarian Yogurt Soup that promises to elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Bulgarian yogurt (strained)
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 3 cups cold water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (optional)
• Ice cubes (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Yogurt:If your yogurt is not strained, place it in a cheesecloth-lined sieve or a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl. Let it drain in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight until it thickens.

Chop Vegetables and Herbs:

1-Peel and dice the cucumber.

2-Finely chop the garlic, dill, and mint.

Mix Yogurt and Water:In a large mixing bowl, combine the strained yogurt and cold water. Whisk until well blended.

Add Vegetables and Herbs:Stir in the diced cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, and mint into the yogurt-water mixture.

Seasoning:Drizzle olive oil over the soup and season with salt and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Optional: Add Vinegar for Zing:If you desire a bit of tanginess, add white wine vinegar to the soup. Stir well.

Chill:Refrigerate the soup for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to become thoroughly chilled.

Serve:Prior to serving, give the soup a final stir. Pour it into bowls and add ice cubes if you prefer an extra chill.

Garnish:Garnish the soup with additional fresh herbs for a burst of color and added flavor.

Enjoy:Serve this refreshing Bulgarian Yogurt Soup as a light and cooling appetizer on warm days, embracing the authentic taste of Bulgarian culinary tradition.

Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences, and savor the delightful blend of yogurt, cucumbers, and herbs that make this cold soup a classic Bulgarian treat!

Nutritional Values:

Providing exact nutritional values can be challenging due to variations in specific brands and sizes of ingredients, as well as the potential for personal adjustments in the recipe. However, I can offer approximate values based on common nutritional information:

Nutritional Values (Per Serving):

Bulgarian Yogurt (2 cups, strained):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 6g

benefits:

• Rich in probiotics, supporting gut health.
• Excellent source of protein for muscle health.
• Provides essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium.

Cucumber (1 medium-sized, peeled and diced):

• Calories: 45
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g

benefits:

• Low in calories and a good source of hydration.
• Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.
• Provides vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and potassium.

Cold Water (3 cups):

• Calories: 0
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Essential for overall hydration and bodily functions.
• Supports digestion and nutrient absorption.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced):

• Calories: 10
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• May contribute to heart health and immune system support.

Fresh Dill (2 tablespoons, finely chopped):

• Calories: 0
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Contains essential oils with antibacterial properties.
• Rich in antioxidants, promoting overall health.
• May have anti-inflammatory benefits.

Fresh Mint (1 tablespoon, finely chopped):

• Calories: 1
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Aids in digestion and can help relieve indigestion.
• Contains menthol, offering a cooling sensation and potential respiratory benefits.
• Rich in antioxidants.

Olive Oil (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Healthy monounsaturated fats support heart health.
• Contains antioxidants, protecting cells from damage.
• May have anti-inflammatory properties.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 0
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Essential for maintaining proper fluid balance in the body.
• Supports nerve function and muscle contractions.

Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon):

• Calories: 3
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Contains piperine, enhancing nutrient absorption.
• May have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

White Wine Vinegar (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 3
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Adds a tangy flavor to the soup.
• May have antimicrobial properties.
• Contains acetic acid, which may aid digestion.

Ice Cubes (for serving):

• Calories: 0
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Enhances the refreshing and chilled nature of the soup.
• Supports hydration.

Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and quantities used. Adjustments to the recipe or ingredient choices will impact the nutritional content.