Toni The Greek's Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a dip, or sauce found in the cuisines of Southeast Europe and the Middle East. It is made of salted strained yogurt or diluted yogurt mixed with cucumbers, garlic, salt, olive oil, sometimes with vinegar or lemon juice, and herbs such as dill, mint, parsley and thyme. It is served as a cold appetizer, a side dish, and as a sauce for souvlaki and gyros sandwiches and other foods. My friend Toni makes a much more simplified yet versatile version of this integral ingredient.

Ingredients

3 cups Greek yogurt, the highest fat content you can find

5-8 allspice berries

3-5 garlic cloves

Directions

Place yogurt in a colander lined with a coffee filter.

Place over a bowl to catch the whey and put in fridge overnight, or at least for 4-6 hours.

Place garlic cloves and allspice berries in mortar and pestle and blend into a paste.

Add to drained yogurt. Season to taste.

Serve in a bowl with keftedes, curries, or any other middle eastern dishes, and with breads and spreads.