Balkan tarator

Method

• step 1

  Coarsely grate the cucumbers, then take a handful and squeeze out as much water as you can over a small bowl – reserve it, it makes for a refreshing drink. Put all the squeezed cucumbers in a separate bowl.

• step 2

  Put the garlic, vinegar and ½ tsp of sea salt flakes in a medium bowl, and mix well to combine. Add the cucumbers and remaining ingredients, together with a good grind of black pepper, and mix well. Check and adjust the seasoning to your taste. Store in an airtight container in the fridge until you are ready to serve.

• step 3

  To make the topping (if using), put the garlic, fresh and dried mint, bukovo pepper, ½ tsp of sea salt flakes and a good grind of black pepper into a small heatproof bowl. Heat the oil in a small pan over a high heat until it starts to smoke. Remove from the heat and immediately pour over the topping ingredients – they should sizzle. Set aside to cool.

• step 4

  To serve, put the tarator in a lipped serving bowl. Drizzle over some of the topping (if using) and serve the rest alongside. Sprinkle some fresh mint leaves (or dried mint) and dill fronds over the top.