Healthy Ayran Drink Recipe (Daweh)

Name: Healthy Ayran Drink Recipe (Daweh)
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: ½ cup plain yogurt; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup cold water; ¼ tsp dried/ground mint leaves ((optional))

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This Ayran Drink Recipe, known as "Daweh" in Assyrian, is a refreshing yogurt drink, with health benefits similar to Kefir. It is made with three simple ingredients: yogurt, water, and salt. Although a fourth ingredient, dried mint, is sometimes added.

Similar, if not identical yogurt drinks are enjoyed throughout the Middle East, and beyond. This Ayran drink is very popular in Turkey. The ingredients used in most Ayran drink recipes are the same ones used in the Assyrian version.

The only difference might be the proportions of the ingredients. Daweh, as we referred to it in my family, was always served nice and salty and loaded with plenty of ice cubes.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Add yogurt to a large glass. Stir in salt.

2. Whisk in water, until thoroughly mixed. Stir in dried and ground mint leaves (if using).

yogurt drink called ayran in a glass on the counter with mint and whisk

3. Pour over lots of ice. Add a sprig of fresh mint for garnish. Serve immediately before it begins to separate.

Recipe FAQs and Expert Tips

What is the origin of this Ayran drink?

Although I can't pinpoint the exact origin of the first Ayran drink recipe, I wouldn't be surprised if the Assyrians were responsible. However, the internet seems to speculate that it most likely originated in Persia or Turkey.

In Iraq, this drink is known as "Shanina." In Iran, it's known as "Doogh." "Doogh" according to Wikipedia, is derived from the word "Dooshidan," (or "milking").

However, this Aryan drink recipe is not to be confused with the Indian yogurt drink known as "Lassi." Lassi is a sweet yogurt drink, usually containing fruit and spices, for example, cardamom.

What is the best yogurt to use when making this Aryan drink?

Personally, I recommend using homemade yogurt. My yogurt recipe is pretty straight forward and results in a tangy yogurt, perfect for this yogurt drink.

However, if you don't have time to make your own yogurt, plain Middle Eastern or Greek yogurt will also work.

Another brand that I recommend and use often is Mountain High. The main thing to keep in mind is not to use flavored yogurt, like vanilla. Did I mention Daweh is a savory drink?

When making this Aryan drink keep in mind that the consistency matters. Getting the proper yogurt to water ratio is important. Many recipes call for a 1 part yogurt to 3 parts water. I personally prefer a creamier and thicker consistency. Therefore, I usually mix one part yogurt to two parts of water.
If you find this ratio too thick, you can easily dilute it with more water. On the other hand, if the Aryan/Daweh is too watered down, just stir in more yogurt.
Daweh is one of those drinks that tastes better when heavily salted. However, if you are watching your salt, feel free to reduce the amount of salt suggested in the recipe.
I find that ½ tsp. of salt in a 12 oz serving usually does the trick! However, it's always smart to start with a smaller amount and add more to suit your taste.
If the yogurt drink does separate, stir or whisk until blended again.

ayran drink recipe (yogurt drink) in a blue glass, with dried mint and ice

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