Traditional Armenian Tahn Drink Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 liter of water
  • 500 grams of plain yoghurt
  • 2 tablespoons of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of dried mint
  • 1/2 cucumber, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cloves of garlic, crushed (optional)
  • Ice cubes (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the yoghurt in a large bowl.
  2. Add the salt and mix well until the salt is fully incorporated into the yoghurt.
  3. Gradually add the water to the yoghurt while continuously stirring until well mixed.
  4. If you prefer a thicker consistency, add less water. For a thinner consistency, add more water.
  5. If using, add the dried mint, crushed garlic, and chopped cucumber to the yoghurt mixture and stir well.
  6. Chill the Tahn in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
  7. Before serving, you may add a few ice cubes to keep the beverage cold.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangier flavor
  • Experimenting with different herbs such as dill, parsley, or cilantro
  • Adding a pinch of ground cumin or paprika for a hint of spice
  • Using Greek yoghurt instead of plain yoghurt for a thicker consistency
  • Adding finely chopped mint leaves for a refreshing twist
  • Replacing the cucumber with grated carrot or diced tomatoes
  • Using coconut yoghurt instead of dairy-based yoghurt for a vegan version
  • Adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness

Recipe overview

Tahn is a delicious and refreshing Armenian yoghurt-based drink that's perfect for hot summer days. While it's traditionally served cold, this versatile beverage is also enjoyed at room temperature in some regions. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, requiring just a few basic ingredients. The end result is a creamy, slightly salty drink with a hint of mint. Optional ingredients like cucumber and garlic add a delightful twist to this classic drink. Enjoy Tahn as a refreshing standalone beverage, or pair it with your favorite Armenian dishes.

Common questions

  1. Can I use flavored yoghurt instead of plain yoghurt? No, it is best to use plain yoghurt for this recipe to maintain the authentic taste of Tahn.
  2. Can I use fresh mint instead of dried mint? Yes, you can use fresh mint leaves instead of dried mint. Simply chop the fresh mint leaves finely and add them to the yoghurt mixture.
  3. Is it necessary to add cucumber and garlic? No, adding cucumber and garlic is optional. They can enhance the flavor of Tahn, but the recipe can still be delicious without them.
  4. Can I adjust the amount of salt? Yes, you can adjust the amount of salt according to your taste preferences. Start with the recommended amount and add more if desired.
  5. How long does Tahn need to chill in the fridge? Tahn should be chilled in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large bowl - Needed to mix the yoghurt and water together.
  • Whisk or spoon - Used to mix the yoghurt, water, and salt together.
  • Cutting board - If using cucumber, it can be chopped on a cutting board.
  • Knife - Used to chop the cucumber and crush the garlic cloves, if using.
  • Measuring spoons - Required to measure the salt and dried mint accurately.
  • Refrigerator - Needed to chill the Tahn before serving.
  • Glasses or cups - Used to serve the Tahn.

Origin stories

Tahn, also known as Ayran, is an integral part of Armenian, Turkish and Middle Eastern diets. This refreshing yoghurt-based beverage has been quenching the thirst of people in these regions for centuries. It is said to have been first made by nomadic tribes, who discovered that the fermentation of milk not only preserved it, but also yielded a tangy, refreshing drink that was perfect for hot desert climates. These tribes would carry the fermented milk in goat-skin bags, which would be shaken constantly as they traveled, resulting in a frothy, creamy beverage. Today, Tahn is not just a beloved thirst-quencher, but also considered a health drink due to its probiotic content and cooling properties.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.