Persian Yogurt Zucchini Dip (Mast o Kadoo)

Mast o Kadoo is a light Persian yogurt and zucchini dip. It combines the creamy texture of Greek yogurt with the refreshing crunch of shredded zucchini. This classic Iranian appetizer is perfect for summer. It offers a nutritious and flavorful dish that can be served with bread or as part of a larger spread. The fresh dill and garlic add a fragrant aroma and robust flavor, making it a must-try dipping sauce.

Yogurt based dips are some of my top favorite mezzes. They’re light, delicious and go well with almost anything. Check out my recipes for mast-o-khiar (Persian yogurt and cucumber), tzatziki and haydari for more ideas.

This classic Persian dip is made with a few ingredients and is so refreshing. It makes the perfect snack or appetizer, and you can make it ahead of time!

Recipe Highlights: Mast O Kadoo

Cultural Influence: A classic Persian appetizer

Primary Cooking Technique: Mixing shredded and drained zucchini with Greek yogurt and fresh herbs

Dominant Flavor Profile: Creamy and tangy with a fresh, herbaceous note from dill and a mild bite from garlic

Skill Level Required: Beginner-friendly; simple steps and easily accessible ingredients.

Ingredients

• Zucchini adds a fresh and slightly sweet flavor. For the best texture, shred and squeeze out excess moisture.
• Garlic provides a strong, aromatic kick. Mince finely for even distribution and a balanced taste.
• Kosher Salt enhances overall flavor. Use coarse kosher salt for better texture and flavor.
• Black Pepper adds a mild heat and depth to the dip. Freshly ground black pepper works best.
• Fresh Dill brings a bright, herby note to the dip. Use fresh dill for optimal flavor, but dried dill can substitute if necessary (1-1.5 tsp).
• Greek Yogurt creates a creamy, tangy base. Greek yogurt works best due to its thickness and richness, but plain or plant-based yogurt can be used if they are not flavored.

What is Mast O Kadoo?

Mast o Kadoo, or Persian yogurt and zucchini dip, is a cherished classic in Iranian cuisine. This refreshing and nutritious dip is especially popular during the hot summer months, providing a cool, creamy respite from the heat.

Additionally, the roots of Mast o Kadoo can be traced back to the ancient Persian tradition of combining yogurt with various vegetables and herbs to create light and healthy side dishes.

Loved for its simplicity and versatility, this dip embodies the essence of Persian cooking—fresh, wholesome ingredients paired in ways that bring out their best flavors.

Dill, a key ingredient, is revered in Persian culinary culture for its aromatic, health-boosting properties.

When you combine the tangy yogurt with crunchy, fresh zucchini and aromatic garlic, your Mast o Kadoo won’t just be a delightful accompaniment to meals, but also a reflection of Persian hospitality and the art of making simple ingredients shine.

Ingredient Spotlight: Dill

Dill, a staple in Persian cuisine, is renowned for its delicate, feathery fronds and distinctively fresh, slightly tangy flavor.

Originating from the Mediterranean and Eastern Europe, people have used dill for centuries not only for its culinary versatility but also for its medicinal properties.

Furthermore, in Mast o Kadoo, fresh dill adds a burst of herbal freshness that complements the creamy yogurt and the mild, slightly sweet flavor of zucchini.

Choosing Dill: For the best flavor, opt for fresh dill with vibrant green leaves and no signs of wilting. You can use dried dill in a pinch, but it’s best to use fresh whenever possible for a more pronounced flavor.

Health Benefits: Dill is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It has been traditionally used to aid digestion and soothe ailments like colic and hiccups.

Tip: To keep dill fresh, store it in a glass of water in the fridge, covered loosely with a plastic bag. If using dried dill, remember that its flavor is more concentrated, so you’ll need less of it.

How to Make Mast O Kadoo

Step 1: Prep Zucchini

Shred 1 zucchini using a box grater or a food processor.

Next, place the shredded zucchini in a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel.

Squeeze out the excess moisture to ensure a creamier dip texture. This step is optional but recommended for the best results.

Step 2: Start Combining Ingredients

First, in a medium bowl, combine the shredded zucchini with the yogurt, minced garlic clove, kosher salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh dill.

Then, stir the mixture until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.

Next, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dip in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve the Mast o Kadoo with bread, pita, or as a refreshing side dish.

Serving Suggestions

You can serve this dip as a side for different dishes including chicken kabobs, chenjeh or grilled chicken breast. You can use it as a spread to make sandwiches as well. My favorite way to serve it is with a variety of bread.

Breads to Serve with Mast O Kadoo

1. Pita Bread is a classic choice for serving with Mast o Kadoo. Its soft and fluffy texture makes it perfect for dipping. You can serve it warm or toasted for an added crunch.
2. Lavash, a soft, thin flatbread, is another excellent option. It can be served fresh or lightly toasted. Its mild flavor complements the refreshing taste of the yogurt and zucchini dip.
3. Sangak: This traditional Persian flatbread, baked on small pebbles, has a unique texture and slightly tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with Mast o Kadoo. Serve it warm and freshly baked for the best experience.
4. Barbari is a popular Iranian bread with a crisp crust and soft, airy interior. It’s ideal for scooping up generous portions of the dip. Brush it with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds for added flavor.
5. French Baguette offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy dip. Lightly toast the slices and drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added richness.
6. Ciabatta is great for soaking up the flavors of the dip. Toast it slightly to enhance its crunchy exterior and soft interior.

Tips for Serving Bread with Mast o Kadoo

• Warm the Bread: Warm bread enhances its flavor and makes it more enjoyable to dip.
• Add Olive Oil: Drizzling olive oil over the bread before serving can add extra richness and complement the dip’s flavors.
• Garnish: Adding a sprinkle of herbs or spices on the bread, such as za’atar or sumac, can enhance the overall eating experience.

How to Store Persian Yogurt Zucchini Dip

Refrigeration:

Store Mast o Kadoo in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. The dip will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when properly stored in the refrigerator. Before serving, give the dip a quick stir as the ingredients might separate slightly during storage.

Freezing:

It is generally not recommended to freeze Mast o Kadoo because the texture of the yogurt and zucchini can become watery and less appealing after thawing.

Serving:

1. Chill Before Serving: Mast o Kadoo is best enjoyed chilled. If storing for a longer period, let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
2. Refreshing the Dip: If the dip seems a bit watery after storage, you can refresh it by adding a bit more Greek yogurt and stirring well.