How to Make Traditional Turkish Beverages at Home

Turkey is known for its rich and diverse culture, and this is wonderfully reflected in its traditional beverages. Making these drinks at home can be a delightful way to experience Turkish hospitality. Here’s a guide on how to prepare some popular traditional Turkish beverages.

1. Çay (Turkish Tea)

Çay is an integral part of Turkish culture. Here’s how to make it:

  • Ingredients: 1 cup of loose black tea, 4 cups of water, sugar (optional).

Instructions:

  1. Start by boiling 3 cups of water in a kettle.
  2. Place the loose black tea in a Turkish teapot (çaydanlık) and add the remaining cup of water.
  3. Once the water is boiling, pour half of it into the teapot containing the tea. Let it steep for about 15-20 minutes.
  4. To serve, fill a glass with a quarter tea and three-quarters hot water. Add sugar as desired.

2. Türk Kahvesi (Turkish Coffee)

Turkish coffee is famous for its unique preparation and rich flavor. Here’s a simple recipe:

  • Ingredients: 2 cups of cold water, 2 tablespoons of finely ground coffee, sugar (optional).

Instructions:

  1. In a cezve (a small pot), combine the cold water and coffee. Add sugar if you prefer sweet coffee.
  2. Slowly heat the mixture over low heat. Do not stir once it begins to heat.
  3. As the coffee begins to foam, remove it from heat before it boils.
  4. Let it settle for a few moments, then pour the coffee into a small cup, including the grounds.

3. Ayran (Yogurt Drink)

Ayran is a refreshing yogurt-based drink popular in Turkey, especially during the summer.

  • Ingredients: 1 cup of plain yogurt, 1 cup of cold water, a pinch of salt.

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, cold water, and salt until well combined and frothy.
  2. Serve chilled in glasses. You can also add mint for extra flavor.

4. Salep (Orchid Root Beverage)

Salep is a traditional winter drink made from the tuber of the orchid plant. Note that it's less common today due to the endangered status of orchids, so be sure to source your salep ethically.

  • Ingredients: 1 cup of milk, 1 tablespoon of salep powder, sugar to taste, ground cinnamon.

Instructions:

  1. Heat milk in a small saucepan, making sure it does not boil.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine salep powder with a little cold milk to make a smooth paste.
  3. Add the paste to the hot milk, constantly stirring to avoid lumps.
  4. Continue to stir until thickened, then sweeten with sugar and finish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon before serving.

5. Şalgam (Turnip Juice)

Şalgam is a unique and tangy drink made from fermented turnips, often enjoyed with kebabs.

  • Ingredients: 2 medium-sized turnips, 1-2 tablespoons of salt, water, and some crushed black carrots or red pepper for flavor.

Instructions:

  1. Peel and chop the turnips, blending them with water until smooth.
  2. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a large jar, pushing down to extract as much liquid as possible.
  3. Add salt and any optional spices you like. Seal the jar and let it ferment at room temperature for 3-5 days.
  4. Once fermented, refrigerate and serve cold.

These traditional Turkish beverages can provide a wonderful insight