How to Make Ayran

Many an unsuspecting traveler in Turkey has bought a plastic container of what looks to be yogurt - only to open it up and find a watery, white mixture. While it can take some getting used to, the yogurt drink ayran (which can also be found in other countries in the region, including Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Iran and Kazakhstan) is an excellent complement to kebabs or other meat dishes.

Things You'll Need

• 2 cups plain, unsweetened yogurt (full fat is best)
• 2 cups water
• Whisk, electric beater or blender
• Salt to taste
• Dried or fresh mint to taste

Instructions

Mixing the Ayran

1. Pour the yogurt in a medium mixing bowl.

2. Using the electric beater, blender or whisk, beat the yogurt until it is completely smooth.

3. Add in the water one-half cup at a time, beating it into the yogurt after each addition.

4. When all the water is added in, continue beating for one minute. The surface of the ayran should be a bit bubbly.

5. Add salt to taste, beating the salt into the mixture.

6. Add mint to taste, beating it into the mixture to release its flavor.

Tips & Warnings

• This recipe makes 4 cups of ayran. To serve a larger group, mix equal parts yogurt and water.