Cucumber sauce for falafel -- keeps how long?

[mcsheridan]

plain yogurt
cucumber, seeded and chopped
S&P
dillweed
minced garlic
lemon juice

The usual recipes have you chill it for 12-24 hours, but how long will it keep, do you think?

[Harters]

Should keep for however long the yoghurt was going to keep - although the cucumber will make it watery and you'd be best pouring this off when you come to use it again.

[coll]

I made some over two weeks ago, and just used it mixed for with guacamole making quesadillas last night (cleaning out the fridge time). Just had a piece for breakfast, definitely nothing wrong. I did drain the cukes before making the sauce though.

[Val]

I love the tzatziki-style sauce also on my falafel...but many places & people use tahini sauce...what's everyone's preference, just wondering? In fact, one place I tried here in town, Greek Gourmet, said to me "What?! Tzatziki on falafel??? No, we only serve it with tahini."

[mcsheridan]

Indeed...tahini is more traditional in most areas. Like you, I'm a big fan of tzatziki, plus it's easier to make for one without worries about tahini paste going bad in the jar. The joyous challenges of cooking for one.

[smtucker]

I love tzatziki on almost anything... falafel, gyros, souvlaki. I know that tahini is more traditional on falafel, but, I much prefer that lovely cucumber, yogurt and garlic flavor.

I actually made my own pita breads last night. OMG! Now that is a treat, and so very easy.

In response to Harter's water/cucumber statement, I shred half the cucumber and mince the other half, lightly salt and drain for 12 hrs. This really helps with reducing the water the exudes from the cucumber. I also drain the yogurt at the same time. This helps the consistency over a few days.

[Val]

harumph, smtucker! :-) Have you also made your own falafel??? I'm afraid if that if I 'go there' (try making my own falafel) and if I *love* it, then forget about it...I'd weigh a million pounds in no time.

[smtucker]

I draw the line at making the falafels. I have two fabulous local spots to get them to-go so I know head right there to satisfy my cravings. Sadly, the other eaters in my life don't care for falafels. I know! What is with that?

[smtucker]

If you don't leave it on the counter too often and long as you dip pita bread into it, while standing in the kitchen, about a week or so.

[mcsheridan]

Thanks...I plan on using it once or twice for the falafel, and if there's any leftover, for lamb. Yummy.