What is the traditional Turkish yogurt drink called?

The traditional Turkish yogurt drink is called ayran.

Ayran is a cold, savory beverage made by mixing yogurt with water and salt. It is usually served chilled, often alongside grilled meat, bread, rice, or other hearty foods. Its tangy, lightly salty flavor makes it especially refreshing in warm weather and a natural complement to rich or strongly seasoned dishes.

Although ayran is strongly associated with Turkey, related yogurt drinks appear across Central Asia, the Balkans, the Middle East, and surrounding regions. Similar beverages may be called doogh, dhallë, or tan, depending on the country and local tradition. Some versions include mint, black pepper, or other herbs, and certain commercial varieties are carbonated.

Buttermilk is the most understandable wrong choice because it is also a cultured dairy drink, but the two are made differently and belong to distinct culinary traditions. Kefir is fermented with kefir grains and has a more complex culture, while lassi is generally associated with South Asia and may be sweet or savory. Ayran’s defining combination is yogurt, water, and salt.