While the yogurt simmers, combine olive oil and garlic in a small skillet and set over medium heat. Cook, stirring and swirling the skillet often, until garlic is fragrant but not browned, 1 to 2 minutes.
Pour the garlic and its oil into the yogurt and stir. The sauce should be quite sour, but will vary based on the yogurt used; add optional lemon juice, if needed.
Garlic and oil added to simmered yogurt
Stir rice into the yogurt until well combined; season with salt, if needed. Increase heat slightly and bring to a simmer, then cook, stirring often, until you reach a porridge-like consistency similar to a thin risotto or rice pudding, about 15 minutes; you may need to add more water depending on the rice you are using, but keep in mind that the consistency will also thicken as it cools.
To serve, ladle the rice into shallow bowls and, if using, top with the toasted nuts and/or dried mint.
