Ayran (salted yogurt drink)

Applies to: a traditional cold savory drink of plain yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt, whisked to a light foam and served ice-cold.

  1. Combine the yogurt and cold water at roughly a 2:1 to 1:1 yogurt-to-water ratio, adjusting to the thickness you want.
  2. Thinner for a refreshing drink, thicker for a richer one — this is a to-taste ratio.
  3. Add a pinch of fine salt (start light, about 1 g per glass) and taste before adding more.
  4. Salt is subtle — it should round the drink, not make it taste salty. Under-salt and adjust up.
  5. Whisk, blend, or froth briskly until smooth and a light foam cap forms on top.
  6. Pour into the chilled glass, keeping the foam on top; serve immediately over ice if desired.