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West African Yogurt Drink

Serves 4 to 6 Beverage vegetarian, Beverages

West African Yogurt Drink

West African Yogurt Drink is a beloved refreshment in homes across the region, often found gracing the table during the heat of the day. It is a cooling antidote to the sun's intensity, crafted with the simplicity and care typical of home kitchens. This drink is not just a thirst-quencher but a staple that connects shared meals, where the salt is judged by hand, and the fat is embraced wholeheartedly.

The drink offers a creamy, tangy sip, with the yogurt's richness balanced by a precise touch of salt. Its silky texture glides across the palate, while the ice ensures each mouthful is bracingly cold. This is the home version, unfussy and generous, perfectly embodying the convivial spirit of West African dining.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Start by preparing the base for your West African Yogurt Drink. Place 400 g of yogurt into a large mixing bowl. The yogurt should be fresh and at room temperature to ensure it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients.
  2. Next, measure 300 ml of cold water using a measuring cup. Pour the cold water into the bowl with the yogurt. This step is crucial as the water thins the yogurt to the desired consistency, creating a refreshing drink.
  3. Add 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt to the yogurt and water mixture. The salt enhances the flavors, giving the drink its traditional savory note. Stir gently with a whisk or a spoon until the salt is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
  4. To ensure the drink is chilled properly, add ice as needed. Stir the drink gently to cool it evenly without diluting the flavor too much. The drink should feel cold to the touch and have a slightly thick, yet pourable consistency.
  5. Serve the West African Yogurt Drink immediately in traditional glassware, if available. This not only honors the tradition but also enhances the experience of enjoying the drink. The drink should have a smooth texture and a balanced savory taste, perfect for sharing at the table.
Cover of Authentic West African Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic West African Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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