- published: 07 Apr 2008
- views: 1912389
Ayran or laban is a cold beverage of yogurt mixed with cold water and sometimes salt; it is popular in many Central Asian, Middle Eastern and South-eastern European countries.
Similar and possibly related beverages include the South Asian lassi and the Afghan doogh.
The name 'ayran' is used in Turkish and Arabic.
According to Turkish sources, ayran was developed by the Göktürks. According to Persian sources, ayran (doogh) dates to ancient Persia.
Turkey is the biggest producer of ayran in the world, and has researched the subject extensively. In Turkey, ayran is often regarded as a separate category from other soft drinks.
International fast-food companies in Turkey, such as McDonald's and Burger King, include ayran on their menu.
In rural areas of Turkey, ayran is offered as a "standard" drink to guests.
Ayran is usually served chilled, and is a common accompaniment to any form of grilled meat, pastry, or rice.
In Albania Ayran is called Dhallë. It is made from cow yoghurt mixed with water and is served salted and cold. You can buy it in the market, fast-food chains, Byrektore (A shop where Byrek is made). It is very popular in summer.
Missing something in my life
Searching for it day and night
Couldn't seem to get it right
'Til you walked my way
Leaving lovers one by one
Didn't like who I'd become
Couldn't face myself, I turn and run
Made me see that I could change
Out of my darkness
As I step into the light
We get a new day
Taking one step at a time
You were what I needed
I was falling
Hiding my emotion
You made me see the truth
Your love was what I needed
Hear me calling
Waiting for a lifetime
Girl, you were my rescue
All I needed was you
I used to always get my way
Told me that you wouldn't stay
Had to face it, what you had to say
If I wanted you
You tell me when I did you wrong
I guess I've known it all along
Cared enough and you stood strong
I believed in you
In my frustrations
Tried to become someone else
The years I've wasted
I'd been lying to myself
You were what I needed
I was falling
Hiding my emotion
You made me see the truth
Your love was what I needed
Hear me calling
Waiting for a lifetime
Hear me calling
What I needed
What I needed was you
In you I found shelter
How you believed in me, stood strong
You were there through my darkest hour
You lifted my spirit up
Brought out the best in me
And now I'll stand before you with all my love
You were what I needed
I was falling
Hiding my emotion
But you made me see the truth
Your love was what I needed
Hear me calling
Waiting for a lifetime
Girl you were my rescue