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Lebanese Yogurt Drink

Serves 4 to 6 Beverage vegetarian, Beverages

Lebanese Yogurt Drink

Lebanese Yogurt Drink, known as Ayran, is a staple in Lebanese households, especially during the warmer months. This refreshing drink is a go-to companion for meals, offering a cooling relief on a hot day. It often finds its place on the table alongside hearty dishes, providing a light and tangy balance to rich flavors. The simplicity of its ingredients makes it a beloved choice, passed down through generations as a comforting tradition.

The drink is a harmonious blend of creamy yogurt, a touch of salt, and cold water, creating a smooth, thirst-quenching experience. The salt is added intuitively, a pinch at a time, until the perfect balance is achieved. Served chilled over ice, it's both invigorating and soothing, an ideal refreshment that complements the varied textures of a Lebanese meal.

Ingredients

  • 400 gyogurt
  • 300 mlcold water
  • 1/2 tspfine sea salt
  • as neededice

Method

  1. Begin by ensuring all your ingredients are ready and chilled. Place 400 g of yogurt and 300 ml of cold water in the refrigerator for at least an hour before you start. This chilling step is crucial as it ensures the drink is refreshing and maintains its traditional cool temperature.
  2. Once chilled, measure 400 g of yogurt into a large mixing bowl. Use a whisk to gently break up the yogurt, ensuring there are no lumps. This step is important to achieve a smooth consistency in the final drink.
  3. Add 300 ml of cold water to the yogurt. Pour the water slowly while whisking continuously. This gradual combination helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents the yogurt from separating.
  4. Sprinkle 1/2 tsp of fine sea salt into the mixture. Stir gently to incorporate the salt evenly. Taste the mixture to ensure the salt level is to your liking, as this is a key flavor component in the drink.
  5. If you prefer your drink extra cold, add ice as needed. Stir the drink gently to distribute the coldness evenly without diluting the flavor too much.
  6. Pour the yogurt drink into traditional Lebanese glassware for serving. This not only enhances the authenticity of the experience but also keeps the drink cool longer. Serve immediately to enjoy the refreshing taste at its best.
Cover of Authentic Lebanese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Lebanese Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Lebanese Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Lebanese volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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