If you ask any of my friends what my favorite drink is, they might guess Red Bull or beer. The surprise is that it’s actually Ayran, a simple Turkish yogurt-based drink enjoyed by millions every day.
Ayran is often offered to soothe an upset stomach in Turkey; its cool, slightly salty flavor can be surprisingly comforting. Beyond its digestive benefits, I enjoy Ayran because it quenches thirst and pairs well with many savory dishes.
I especially like drinking Ayran at lunchtime. For an authentic experience, visit a kebab shop and order a kebab with a glass of Ayran. If you can’t find it locally, it’s easy to make at home: combine yogurt, water and a pinch of salt, adjusting quantities to suit your taste.
How to Make Ayran
Place yogurt, cold water and a small amount of salt in a blender. Blend for 30 to 45 seconds until the mixture is smooth and frothy. Pour into glasses and, if you like, serve with ice cubes or a fresh mint leaf. The proportions can be varied: more water for a thinner drink, more yogurt for a creamier texture.
A Common Mistake
A frequent mistake by travelers is buying Ayran at the supermarket instead of milk and then adding it to their coffee or tea. Ayran is similar in color to milk, but it is salty—so salty coffee or tea is not pleasant. For reference, milk in Turkish is called “süt”.
Enjoy a refreshing glass of Ayran on a warm day or alongside your next grilled meal for a taste of Turkish tradition.
(Photo Stock image)