The Non-Vegan Ingredient in Traditional Tzatziki
Traditional Greek tzatziki is a classic creamy cucumber and garlic dip or sauce. The primary ingredient that makes the original recipe non-vegan is the yogurt, which comes from a dairy source. Historically, tzatziki was made with strained sheep or goat's milk yogurt, though modern versions often use Greek yogurt made from cow's milk. The thickness and tangy flavor of the yogurt are foundational to the sauce's characteristic taste and texture. All other traditional ingredients, such as cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and dill, are entirely plant-based and suitable for a vegan diet.
How to Make Tzatziki Sauce Vegan: Creamy Alternatives
Replacing the dairy yogurt is the key step to creating a delicious vegan tzatziki. Fortunately, a variety of plant-based ingredients can mimic the creamy texture and tangy flavor of the original.
Vegan Yogurt Base
This is one of the most straightforward methods for a quick and easy vegan tzatziki. You will need to choose the right type of yogurt to get the best result.
- Use a plain, unsweetened Greek-style vegan yogurt made from soy, oat, or coconut.
- Avoid sweetened or flavored varieties, as they will alter the taste.
- For a thicker sauce, strain excess liquid from the vegan yogurt through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer.
Cashew Cream Base
For a richer, more decadent vegan tzatziki, a cashew cream base is an excellent option.
- Soak raw cashews in hot water for at least 15–20 minutes, or cold water for several hours.
- Drain the cashews and blend them with water, lemon juice, and seasonings until completely smooth.
- The result is a luscious, creamy base that holds its consistency well.
Tofu Base
Using silken or soft tofu is another effective way to create a creamy, thick vegan tzatziki.
- Choose soft or silken tofu for the best texture.
- Blend the tofu with lemon juice, vinegar, and seasonings until smooth.
- The flavor is very neutral, allowing the garlic and dill to shine through.
Other Plant-Based Options
Some recipes also suggest using other bases, which can affect the final flavor.
- Vegan Mayonnaise: Provides a rich, albeit slightly different, flavor profile. Some recipes suggest blending it with vegan yogurt.
- Sunflower Seeds/Tahini: A cashew-free alternative for a nutty flavor profile.
Comparison: Traditional vs. Vegan Tzatziki Bases
| Feature | Traditional Tzatziki (Dairy Yogurt) | Vegan Tzatziki (Plant-Based Yogurt) | Vegan Tzatziki (Cashew Cream) | Vegan Tzatziki (Tofu Base) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taste Profile | Tangy, creamy, rich | Tangy, but flavor depends on yogurt base (soy, coconut) | Rich, creamy, slightly nutty | Mild, creamy, lets other flavors dominate |
| Texture | Very thick, smooth | Can be thick, but may require straining | Very creamy, luxurious | Smooth, but can sometimes be less thick than yogurt |
| Ease of Preparation | Straightforward, mixing ingredients | Very easy if using Greek-style vegan yogurt | Requires soaking and blending cashews | Requires blending, very fast once tofu is ready |
| Dietary Considerations | Not vegan, contains dairy | Vegan and dairy-free | Vegan, dairy-free, and often paleo-friendly | Vegan, dairy-free, high in protein |
Crafting the Perfect Homemade Vegan Tzatziki
Creating your own vegan tzatziki is simple. The most crucial step for a thick, non-watery sauce is properly preparing the cucumber.
How to Prepare Your Cucumber
- Grate the cucumber using a box grater. English cucumbers are often preferred for their thin skin.
- Sprinkle the grated cucumber with a pinch of salt and let it sit in a strainer for 10 minutes. The salt draws out excess moisture.
- Wrap the salted cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step prevents your tzatziki from becoming runny.
Mixing the Ingredients
- In a bowl, combine your chosen creamy base (vegan yogurt, cashew cream, or blended tofu) with the well-drained cucumber.
- Add fresh minced garlic, a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar for tanginess, chopped fresh dill, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the garlic or lemon to your preference.
- Mix thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Serving Suggestions for Vegan Tzatziki
Vegan tzatziki is a versatile sauce that pairs well with a wide variety of dishes.
- Dip: Serve with warm pita bread, falafel, fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, or chips.
- Sandwich Spread: Use it to add a cool, creamy layer to vegan gyros, falafel wraps, or veggie burgers.
- Dressing: Thin with a little extra lemon juice or olive oil to create a salad dressing for grain bowls or Mediterranean salads.
- Accompaniment: Dollop over roasted vegetables, crispy Greek potatoes, or alongside barbecued plant-based skewers.
Conclusion
While traditional tzatziki sauce is not vegan due to its dairy yogurt base, that does not mean plant-based eaters must miss out. By using a vegan yogurt, cashew cream, or tofu base, it is simple to create a dairy-free version that captures the same creamy texture and tangy, herbaceous flavor. These readily available alternatives make it possible for everyone to enjoy this classic Greek dip, whether for health reasons, dietary restrictions, or personal preference. The result is a refreshing and delicious sauce perfect for dipping, spreading, and drizzling on a wide variety of vegan meals.
For a creative and delicious recipe idea, check out this Vegan Tzatziki Sauce Recipe from Bianca Zapatka.
