Bulgarian Ayran

A cold Bulgarian yogurt-and-water drink with salt, mint, and ice.

Preparation: 5 min · Cooking: 0 min · Total: 5 min · 4 servings

Ingredients

• 480 ml plain full-fat pasteurized yogurt — Contains milk (dairy allergen).
• 600 ml drinking water
• 0.5 tsp fine salt
• 2 tsp dried mint
• 8 pc ice cubes made from drinking water

Instructions

1. Measure the cold ingredients

   Measure 480 ml plain, unsweetened, full-fat pasteurized yogurt, 600 ml cold drinking water, ½ tsp fine salt, and 2 tsp dried mint. Set aside 8 clean ice cubes made from drinking water. Keep the yogurt and water refrigerator-cold.

2. Whisk the yogurt smooth

   Put the yogurt in a deep mixing bowl. Whisk for about 30 seconds, scraping the sides, until no lumps remain.

   Smooth and pourable, lightly foamy, with no yogurt lumps.

   Whisk the yogurt smooth: 30 seconds

3. Blend in water, salt, and mint

   Add the 600 ml cold water in two additions, whisking after each. Add the measured ½ tsp salt and 2 tsp dried mint; whisk for about 30 seconds until evenly mixed and lightly foamy.

   Smooth and pourable, lightly foamy, with no yogurt lumps.

   Blend in water, salt, and mint: 30 seconds

4. Check the drink

   Taste with a clean spoon. The ayran should be smooth, pourable, and gently salty. Do not add extra unmeasured salt; yogurt brands differ in saltiness.

5. Add ice and serve

   Put two of the 8 ice cubes in each of four clean glasses. Whisk the drink once more, pour it evenly over the ice, and serve cold. Refrigerate any remainder promptly.

Tips

• Whisk the yogurt smooth before adding water to prevent small lumps in the drink.

Common mistakes

• Do not use sweetened yogurt; it changes the intended savory flavor.
• Do not leave the dairy drink standing warm while serving.

Substitutions

• For plain ayran, omit the mint and ice and serve the same yogurt, water, and salt well chilled.

Storage

Cover and refrigerate at 4°C or below; use within 24 hours. Discard if left unrefrigerated for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour above 32°C.

Reheating

Do not reheat; serve this dairy drink cold. Stir refrigerated leftovers before serving.

About this recipe

Ayran is a yogurt-and-water drink enjoyed in Bulgaria. This version adds dried mint and ice to the basic salted drink.

Editorial approval does not establish independent kitchen testing. Check allergens and follow safe food handling.