Ingredient substitute
What can you use instead of ayran?
Plain yogurt + cold water + salt, Kefir + water and Buttermilk + salt are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.
The quick answer
Plain yogurt + cold water + salt. Ratio 1:1:pinch. This is ayran — whisk until frothy.
Adjust: Use equal parts yogurt and cold water.
-
Plain yogurt + cold water + salt
Drop-in swapRatio 1:1:pinch (ratio 1:1:pinch)
This is ayran — whisk until frothy.
- Flavor
- Tangy, salty.
- Texture
- Thin, frothy.
- Moisture
- Same.
- Adjust
- Use equal parts yogurt and cold water.
- Best for
- Kebab meals, Heat relief
-
Kefir + water
Drop-in swapUse 2× the amount (ratio 2:1)
Slightly fizzy and tangier.
- Flavor
- Tangy.
- Texture
- Thin.
- Moisture
- Same.
- Adjust
- Add a pinch of salt.
- Best for
- Meals, Marinades
-
Buttermilk + salt
Small adjustmentUse the same amount (ratio 1:1)
Thinner and more sour.
- Flavor
- Sour.
- Texture
- Thin.
- Moisture
- Same.
- Adjust
- Chill well before serving.
- Best for
- Drinks, Marinades
-
Sparkling water + yogurt
Small adjustmentUse the same amount (ratio 1:1)
Light and bubbly; stir gently.
- Flavor
- Tangy.
- Texture
- Fizzy.
- Moisture
- Same.
- Adjust
- Add the water last.
- Best for
- Summer drinks
Common questions
What is the best substitute for ayran?
Plain yogurt + cold water + salt is the closest swap. Ratio 1:1:pinch. This is ayran — whisk until frothy.
How much should I use instead of ayran?
It depends on the swap. Plain yogurt + cold water + salt: Ratio 1:1:pinch. Kefir + water: Use 2× the amount. Buttermilk + salt: Use the same amount.
More swaps
Scale it to your recipe
Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.