Ayran
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably full-fat)
- 1 cup cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by ensuring that your yogurt is at room temperature or slightly chilled. Using cold yogurt straight from the refrigerator may cause the ayran to be too thick.
- In a mixing bowl or pitcher, add the plain yogurt.
- Slowly pour in the cold water over the yogurt.
- Sprinkle the salt over the mixture. The amount of salt can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.
- Using a whisk, hand mixer, or blender, thoroughly mix the ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and frothy. This step helps to incorporate air into the ayran, giving it a light and creamy texture.
- Taste the ayran and adjust the salt if necessary.
- If desired, add ice cubes to chill the ayran further and make it more refreshing.
- Pour the ayran into glasses for serving.
- Optionally, garnish each glass with fresh mint leaves for a decorative touch and an extra hint of flavor.
- Serve the ayran immediately as a refreshing beverage alongside your favorite Turkish dishes or enjoy it on its own.
Enjoy your homemade ayran, a classic and beloved Turkish drink!