Creamy and Tangy Yogurt Drinks

In the September/October 2024 issue, Associate Editor Emily Saladino examines the role yogurt drinks plays in different cultures around the world, from India to the Mediterranean. Whether an ayran from Turkey, a doogh from Iran, or lassi from India, mixing yogurt in drinks “can create connections that transcend time and place,” she writes. Here we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite creamy beverages, from alcohol-free yogurt coolers to savory and tangy cocktails.

Alcohol-Free

Banana and Coconut Smoothie

Dark chocolate and toasty coconut elevate this smoothie to dessert status.

Frozen Mango Ayran

A simple mango fermentation lends depth and complexity to this Turkish yogurt drink. 

Lemon Meringue Milkshake

Light and fluffy, this lemon meringue-inspired milkshake made with lemon yogurt and lemon curd is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Mango Lassi

For her mango lassi recipe, chef and author Radhika Subramanian uses her native fruit. “I use only alphonso mangos for the rich color it imparts, and it’s also sweeter than other varieties.”

South Indian Yogurt Cooler

An aromatic mix of herbs, chilies, and ginger gives this yogurt drink layers of complexity.

Sweet Lassi

The traditional Indian yogurt drink lassi makes for the ideal warm-weather refresher. 

Vietnamese Yogurt Coffee

Mix up your coffee routine with this sweet and tangy Vietnamese yogurt coffee drink.

Cocktails

Banarasi Gold

Inspired by traditional mango lassi, this creamy cocktail with mango puree and yogurt liqueur adds a kick of rum for extra flavor. 

Breakfast Bramble

Two breakfast table staples—jam and yogurt—come together in a brunch cocktail that’s lightly creamy and perfectly sweet and tangy.

Hazy Jane

Yogurt and orgeat added to Sam Ross’ modern classic Old Maid creates a savory and tangy cocktail.

Hideaway Honey

A creamy cocktail made with aged aquavit, honey, lemon, and Chartreuse.

Slippery When Wet

Unsweetened Greek yogurt makes for a tangy cocktail with a creamy texture.