Cucumber Yogurt Sauce (Khyar bi laban)

This Middle Eastern Cucumber Yogurt Sauce or Salad is very similar to Tzatziki. In Arabic, it’s called Khyar bi laban, it’s cold and refreshing, and often served with rice and meat dishes.

What is the difference between cucumber yogurt sauce and tzatziki?

While these two recipes might seem very similar, they are actually different. Let me explain how:

1. Texture: Tzatziki uses thick and creamy Greek yogurt, Laban bi khyar is made with just plain yogurt and is often mixed with a little bit of water to make it runny.
2. Cucumbers: In Tzatziki the cucumber is grated and then drained from moisture, but in the Middle Eastern version cucumbers are diced and added right to the yogurt.
3. Herbs and Flavor: Tzatziki’s main herb is dill, while Laban bi Khyar is flavored with dried mint. Both are made with garlic.
4. Serving: Tzatziki is often served as a dip or a sauce to top gyros or souvlaki, while Laban bi khyar is served in a small bowl on the side with rice dishes like Mujadara, and grilled meats like grilled kafta.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you need to make Cucumber Yogurt Sauce:

• Yogurt: Make sure you’re using plain unflavored yogurt. Greek yogurt is not traditional, but works if that’s what you have or prefer.
• Cucumbers: Use any type of cucumber, preferably go for Persian cucumbers, but baby cucumbers and English cucumbers also work. Dice them small, and I know that some people prefer peeling the cucumbers.
• Garlic: You need about 2 cloves of minced or crushed garlic cloves to a pound of yogurt.
• Dried Mint: An essential in Laban bi Khyar! If you can’t find dried mint in stores, just dry your own or use fresh mint instead.

If you enjoy this combination of flavors, you should also try making my Pasta with Yogurt Sauce! It uses a similar blend of yogurt, garlic, and mint to create a creamy sauce for spaghetti.

Complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

How To Make Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

1. Dice the cucumbers, and mince or crush the garlic.
2. In a large bowl, combine yogurt with cucumbers, garlic, mint, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil right before serving if desired.

Storing Tips

This sauce or salad can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 5 days, but it also depends on how fresh is the yogurt that you’re using. Keep in mind that garlic flavor might intensify a little when stored and chilled.

Recipe Tips

• Fresh lemon juice can be added for a tangier salad if desired.
• This recipe is scaled to feed a family, so feel free to halve it if you’re not serving a crowd.

I hope that you love this simple Middle Eastern Cucumber Yogurt Sauce! If you try it, share your thoughts in the comments box below! I love hearing from you.