Learn How to Make Authentic Tarhana: A Traditional Turkish Yogurt Soup Recipe

Tarhana Çorbası, or Tarhana Soup, is a traditional Turkish dish. It is made from a fermented and dried mix of flour, yogurt, onions, tomatoes, and green peppers. The soup's composition varies across Turkey. This unique soup combines rich flavours with a creamy texture, making it a beloved choice in Turkish cuisine.

For Tarhana:

• 3 ripe tomatoes
• 3 green peppers
• 3 onions
• 2 cups (500 ml) live yogurt
• 1 teaspoon dried active yeast
• ½ cup tepid water (100°F / 40°C)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• Flour as needed

For Soup:

• 1 cup dry tarhana mix
• 7-8 cups meat stock
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

1. Dissolve sugar in tepid water. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it soften for about 5 minutes. Stir well.
2. Blanche, peel, and seed the tomatoes. Peel and chop the onions. Remove stems, seeds, and membranes from the green peppers and chop roughly.
3. Puré the tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and yogurt in a blender or food processor in batches.
4. Combine all ingredients except flour. Gradually add flour to form a stiff dough. Knead for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a large bowl covered with waxed paper. Let it stand at room temperature for 10-12 days. Punch down daily. If watery, knead in more flour until dough no longer rises.
6. Rub dough into small pieces on parchment paper. Cover with cheesecloth and dry in a cool place. Break into smaller pieces as it dries. Pulverize when completely dry.
7. Store tarhana in freezer bags or jars in a cool place or refrigerate for up to 12 months.
8. To make soup, mix 1 cup of dried tarhana with 3 cups of water or stock. Stir until softened. Add more liquid for desired consistency.
9. Add tomato paste and cook for 15-20 minutes. Serve with croutons or parsley if desired.

Nutritional Values

This Turkish soup is best enjoyed with Turkish bread or a crisp baguette. Remember to use live yogurt to prevent contamination during fermentation. For variations, kefir can replace yogurt and yeast as it provides both bacteria and yeast needed for fermentation.Sterilise all utensils before use to ensure safety during preparation. Enjoy this delightful soup that brings the taste of Turkey to your table!