This Ayran Drink Recipe, known as "

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.
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).
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
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.
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.
Related Recipes
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📖 Recipe
Healthy Ayran Drink Recipe (Daweh)
Ingredients
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold water
- ¼ teaspoon dried/ground mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Stir yogurt and salt until thoroughly combined.
- Whisk in water, until completely blended. Stir in dried mint, if using.
- Pour the Daweh over a tall glass full of ice cubes, and enjoy!
Notes
- Another thing to keep in mind when making Daweh is the consistency. 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 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.
Sana says
Great yogurt drink recipe! I just made smoked yogurt and the mint gave it a million flavors in one 12 oz cup. My 5 year old loved it! Thanks for the recipe!
Hilda Sterner says
Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it and your 5 year old too! How great!
2pots2cook says
So in love with the idea to add mint in 🙂 🙂 Have a pot on my balcony 🙂 🙂 Thank you Hilda !
HildaSterner says
Yes, the mint adds a whole new flavor. One of my favorite herbs, for sure! Thanks for stopping by!