Ayran: Turkish Yoghurt Drink

Ayran is a refreshing Turkish drink, made from yoghurt. It's very simple to make and it's perfect for a hot summer day. Unlike most other yoghurt based beverages, it's savoury, not sweet, which makes it perfect to have with a hearty meal.

As if that's not enough, it also has the magical ability to take the burning from hot peppers away instantly, so keep that in mind if you know you'll be having a spicy dish!

I said this is simple, and it is! All you need is:

• yoghurt, needs to be plain, can have your preferred fat contents
• water (as much as you have yoghurt)
• salt (fine grains is best for faster dissolving)

It's best if both the water and the yoghurt are already cold.

Combine yoghurt and water, mix.

Then add two teaspoons of salt, and mix again, giving it the time to dissolve.

Taste it. Is it slighty salty, rather than brackish? If not, add a little bit more.

Yes, really. You're done. All that's left to do is making sure your ayran is well chilled, and serve. You can add ice if you like.

Some more options:

• Add lemon juice.
• Add shredded mint leaves.

For an Indian version:

• Instead of salt, add powdered cumin.

Serefe (= cheers) !