What are some popular dishes that pair well with ayran?
Ayran, the salted Turkish yogurt drink, pairs best with grilled and fried meat such as shish and Adana kebab, doner and lahmacun, and with spicy foods and pastries such as pide, borek and gozleme. Its salt and tang cut richness and cool heat.
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In this article
What goes well with ayran?
Ayran is a cold Turkish drink of yogurt, water and salt. Its sour, salty flavor works against richness and heat, which is why it is a standard partner for grilled meat in Turkey. Pairings are a matter of tradition and taste, not rules.
Best pairings
- Kebabs: shish kebab and Adana kebab are the classic matches. The drink cuts through fatty lamb.
- Doner: in sandwiches or on a plate, with rice and salad.
- Lahmacun: thin spiced meat flatbread; ayran tempers the heat.
- Pide, borek and gozleme: baked or pan-fried pastries with cheese, spinach or meat.
- Fried foods: fried fish, meatballs (kofte) or fritters.
- Spicy dishes: chili-based dishes where something cooling helps.
- Pickles and simit: a casual snack pairing (our suggestion).
When it is less suitable
- With sweet desserts, where a salty drink may clash (our opinion).
- With a meal that already has a lot of dairy and salt, if you watch your intake.
Serving tips
- Serve it very cold, in a glass or small bowl.
- Stir or whisk just before pouring; it can separate.
- Lemon, garlic or cucumber turn it into a different drink, which is fine but is not classic ayran.
Make a quick glass
Whisk about 1/2 cup plain unsweetened yogurt with 1/2 cup cold water and a pinch of salt, then adjust the thickness with more water. Quantities vary by taste.
Notes
Ayran contains dairy and salt. People with a milk allergy should avoid it, and anyone who limits sodium should check the salt they add or the label of bottled brands.
People also ask
What do you eat with ayran?
Grilled meats like shish and Adana kebab, doner, lahmacun, pide, borek and spicy dishes.
Is ayran served with meals or on its own?
Both. It is a common meal drink and also a refreshing cold drink on its own.
Why is ayran served with kebab?
Its salt and tang cut through rich, fatty meat and cool spicy flavors.
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