Ayran: Turkish Yogurt Drink

Try this super refreshing and healthy Ayran (Turkish yogurt drink) recipe ready in 5 minutes with only 3 simple ingredients. It’s a great thirst quencher and is both healthy and hydrating!

Ayran (also called doogh, Dhallë, or tan depending on locale) is not only super easy and quick to make, it’s also delicious and refreshing!

It literally takes 5 minutes of your time and is made from only 3 simple ingredients.

I’m sure that many countries claim that ayran drink was first made by them, in fact the origins of this drink go back to 1000 CE Armenia. 

It is widely consumed across the Middle East, especially in Turkey where it is considered a national drink, but also in Iran, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria and Arab countries. 

I first tried it in Turkey and immediately fell in love with it, so for me it’s a Turkish drink.

What is Ayran?

Ayran is a savory Turkish yogurt drink made from yogurt, salt, and water although you can certainly spice it up as you’ll soon see.

It’s a drink that is served chilled and often accompanies a savory meal of meat and/or rice (as is common in the region where it originates).

It pairs beautifully with curry or other spicy dishes as it naturally soothes the impact of heat on the tongue and feels even more refreshing.

Is Ayran the same as kefir?

While they are similar, and both are considered non-alcoholic fermented beverages, the process of making them is quite different.

Ayran is made from yogurt, whereas kefir is made from kefir grains. The resulting flavors may be similar, although kefir has often a more pungent flavor.

Is Ayran the same as buttermilk?

Some assume ayran and buttermilk are the same. They are not.

Buttermilk is the milk left over after converting milk into butter. Ayran is a chilled mix of salt, water, and already made yogurt.

What does Ayran taste like?

Ayran is refreshing and savory, slightly tart, and salty.

Depending on the herbs or spices one adds to it, it may also be minty or cooling or even garlicky.

You can even swap out the chilled water for carbonated water and have more of a bubbly, savory drink.

Health Benefits of Ayran

One of the things I love about ayran is its ability to rehydrate your body when it’s hot outside. 

Sea salt (unlike highly processed table salt!) contains numerous minerals and nutrients your body needs on a daily basis, especially when you are sweating. Adding sea salt to your beverages satisfies your thirst and keeps your body hydrated longer. 

In addition, ayran contains yogurt, which is rich in protein, natural probiotics, vitamins and calcium. It keeps to regulate your digestive system and strengthen your body’s natural defense mechanisms.

Ayran isn’t just about flavor, but practically healthy in desert heat…or your backyard on a hot summer day.

How to Make Ayran

This easy ayran recipe takes only 5 minutes and 3 ingredients to prepare.

Greek yogurt would be the best choice for this recipe as it’s thicker and offers the best flavor. 

You can experiment for your own preference if you’d like, but we use a 1:1 ratio of water and yogurt for the best consistency. 

The same with the amount of sea salt: 1 teaspoon for every 500 ml (pint) of yogurt seems just right, but you can feel free to adjust it to your taste. 

Mix everything together and serve chilled. See the recipe card below for details.

Making Flavored Ayran

There are also some interesting ways you can enhance the basic recipe, also. Experiment with adding:

1. Chopped dill
2. Finely grated cucumber
3. Minced garlic
4. Chopped mint
5. Chopped parsley
6. Freshly ground black pepper
7. Chopped cilantro
8. Ground cumin
9. Lime or lemon zest (not the juice)
10. Crushed thyme

Let me know if you have other ideas in the comments below!

How To Serve Ayran

Serve it in a pitcher or glasses as an accompaniment to any savory meal.

I like to serve ayran drink with Turkish flatbread, pita pockets with roasted veggies and hummus or borek with spinach and feta cheese, for a quick and delightful snack.

It will be a great addition to any dinner or summer barbecue table as well.

Top Tips

• Ayran is not only a delicious and hydrating summer drink, it is also super easy to make with only 3 simple ingredients in just 5 minutes.
  
• Depending on the consistency you prefer you can adjust the amount of water you add to the yogurt.
• This ayran recipe makes 1 liter or 1 liquid quart (4 cups) of ayran which is roughly 4 servings (1 cup or 250 ml per serving).
• Refrigerate ayran in an airtight jar or bottle for up to 3 days.
• You don’t have to use blender if you are making the basic recipe with no add-ons. Just mix yogurt, water and salt in a pitcher or in a large bowl using a whisk.
• Serve it with anything savory. Ayran is perfect for summer BBQ or dinner. My favorite ways to serve it is with Turkish flatbread, pita pockets with roasted veggies and hummus or borek with spinach and feta cheese.
• Make sure to check other summer drinks recipes like homemade ginger beer, non-alcoholic mojito and sweet woodruff lemonade.

Recipe Variations

• Make this recipe vegan by using plant-based yogurt (opt for almond or cashew yogurt for the best flavor).
• Experiment with different add-ons like cucumber, garlic, dill, peppermint, parsley, cilantro, thyme, black pepper, cumin, lime or lemon zest (not the juice), etc. The possibilities are endless!

See the recipe below and stay hydrated with this refreshing yogurt drink!