Journal
Ayran, Hibiscus Tea and Lemonada: What We Pour
The right drink makes a good meal better. At Salma’s Kitchen we pour three, and each one has a place at the Middle Eastern table. Here is a quick guide.
What is ayran?
Ayran is a refreshing salted yogurt drink, made by blending yogurt with cool water and a pinch of salt. It is creamy, tangy, and cooling, and it is the classic partner for anything off the grill. If you are ordering a rich dish like kabab or toshka, ayran is the drink to reach for.
What is hibiscus tea?
Our hibiscus tea (known as karkade across much of the Middle East) is a stunning deep-red brew made from dried hibiscus flowers. It is tangy and slightly tart, balanced by a subtle sweetness. We serve it chilled, and it is as beautiful to look at as it is to drink.
What is lemonada?
Lemonada is our fresh mint lemonade: freshly squeezed lemon with mint and just the right amount of sugar. Bright, cold, and herby, it is the one that disappears fastest on a warm Fraser Valley afternoon.
Which drink goes with which dish?
- Rich and grilled? Ayran.
- Something tangy and refreshing? Hibiscus tea.
- Bright and cooling? Lemonada.
See the full menu, read our menu guide, or order for pickup.
Frequently asked questions
What is ayran?
Ayran is a salted yogurt drink made by blending yogurt with cool water and a pinch of salt. It is creamy, tangy and cooling, and it is the classic partner for anything rich off the grill.
Is ayran salty or sweet?
Salty and tangy, never sweet. That pinch of salt is exactly what makes it so refreshing beside grilled meat. If you are expecting a sweet yogurt drink, ayran will surprise you, and most people come around fast.
What does hibiscus tea taste like?
Tangy and slightly tart, balanced by a subtle sweetness, with a deep red colour that is as lovely as the flavour. It is brewed from dried hibiscus flowers, known as karkade across much of the Middle East, and we serve it chilled.
What drink goes best with kabab?
Ayran. Its cool, salty tang cuts through the richness of grilled beef, which is why it has been the classic pairing at the Middle Eastern table for generations. Lemonada, our fresh mint lemonade, is the runner up if you want something bright and sweet instead.
Salma’s Kitchen cooks Armenian and Middle Eastern food in Abbotsford, BC. See the menu, our catering service areas, or how to order. Phone only: (819) 743-5953.