A popular drink throughout the Middle East, ayran is a refreshing protein-packed beverage for a hot day. In some places sugar is added instead of salt; try it either way. The amount of water you add will depend on the thickness of your yogurt; very thick yogurt will take almost an equal amount of water, and very thin yogurt may need only 1/2 cup or so.

　　

Ingredients

makes 2 large or 4 small glasses

　　2 cups good-quality plain yogurt

　　Salt or sugar to taste

　　2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves

　　

Step 1

Whisk together the yogurt and salt or sugar with enough water (or sparkling water) to achieve a milky consistency. (You can also use a blender if you prefer.)

　　

Step 2

Add the mint and serve over ice.

　　

Piyush

Step 3

This is the Indian version: In step 1, honey is sometimes substituted, and a large pinch of saffron threads is added. In step 2, eliminate the mint and add about 1/4 cup chopped unsalted pistachios. Let sit for a little while before serving so the saffron colors the drink nicely.

　　The Best Recipes in the World by Mark Bittman. © 2005 by Mark Bittman. Published by Broadway Books. All Rights Reserved.MARK BITTMAN is the author of the blockbuster The Best Recipes in the World (Broadway, 2005) and the classic bestseller How to Cook Everything, which has sold more than one million copies. He is also the coauthor, with Jean-Georges Vongerichten, of Simple to Spectacular and Jean-Georges: Cooking at Home with a Four-Star Chef. Mr. Bittman is a prolific writer, makes frequent appearances on radio and television, and is the host of The Best Recipes in the World, a 13-part series on public television. He lives in New York and Connecticut.