### How to Make Chef John's Tzatziki Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tzatziki is a refreshing Greek yogurt-based sauce that adds vibrant flavor to many dishes. Follow these detailed steps to make Chef John’s authentic tzatziki sauce, perfect for pairing with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dip.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for best texture)
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano or 4 fresh oregano leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
#### Equipment:
- Grater (for the cucumber)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh strainer
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Cucumber:**
- Wash the cucumber thoroughly.
- Peel it if you prefer a smoother texture, but leave the skin on for more flavor.
- Grate the cucumber using a box grater or food processor.
2. **Rinse and Drain:**
- Place the grated cucumber in a fine-mesh strainer set over a large bowl to catch the liquid.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, then let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.
- Press down on the cucumber to extract as much water as possible. Discard the excess liquid.
3. **Mixing the Ingredients:**
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and extra-virgin olive oil.
- Stir until well blended.
4. **Add Greek Yogurt and Seasonings:**
- Gradually add the Greek yogurt to the cucumber mixture while stirring continuously.
- Mix in the dried oregano or fresh leaves for that authentic taste.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. **Chill Before Serving:**
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- This allows the flavors to meld together, making the tzatziki more flavorful.
6. **Serve:**
- Serve chilled alongside your favorite dishes or enjoy it as a dip with pita bread, vegetables, or grilled meats.
### Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a tablespoon of chopped dill.
- Use fresh herbs for best results; dried herbs work well too but in smaller quantities due to their strong potency.
- If you prefer a thicker tzatziki, use less Greek yogurt and adjust the consistency with more grated cucumber.
By following these steps, you can create a delicious, refreshing tzatziki sauce that will elevate your next meal. Perfect for summer barbecues or any time you want to add some zesty flavor to your cuisine!