Famous Turkish Cocktails and Their Recipes

Turkey is famed for its rich culinary heritage, and its cocktail scene is no exception. From refreshing traditional mixology to modern twists, Turkish cocktails offer a delightful taste of the Mediterranean. Here’s a list of some famous Turkish cocktails along with their recipes that you can easily prepare at home.

Meyhane Cocktail

The Meyhane Cocktail is a refreshing blend that embodies the essence of Turkish tavern culture, known for its lively atmosphere and delicious mezes.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz Ouzo (Greek anise-flavored aperitif)
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 2 oz tonic water
  • A sprig of mint for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Ouzo and lemon juice.
  2. Shake well with ice.
  3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
  4. Top with tonic water and garnish with mint.

Rakı Sour

Rakı is the national drink of Turkey, and this cocktail is a delightful twist on the traditional drink.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Rakı
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • A dash of orange bitters
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. In a shaker, combine Rakı, lemon juice, simple syrup, and orange bitters.
  2. Shake vigorously with ice.
  3. Strain into a chilled glass.

Turkish Delight Martini

This cocktail transports you to the vibrant streets of Istanbul with its unique flavor profile reminiscent of the sweet confection.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 0.5 oz rosewater
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 oz simple syrup
  • Crushed Turkish delight for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Combine vodka, rosewater, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
  2. Shake until well mixed and chilled.
  3. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with crushed Turkish delight.

Efes Breeze

The Efes Breeze is a fruity cocktail inspired by one of Turkey's most beloved beer brands, perfect for warm summer days.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz vodka
  • 1 oz peach schnapps
  • 3 oz Effes Beer
  • Fresh peach slices for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing glass, combine vodka and peach schnapps.
  2. Pour into a glass filled with ice.
  3. Top with Efes beer and stir gently.
  4. Garnish with fresh peach slices.

Çay Mojito

A refreshing take on the classic mojito, this cocktail incorporates Turkish tea for a unique twist.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz brewed black tea (cooled)
  • 1.5 oz white rum
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz simple syrup
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Club soda to top

Instructions:

  1. Muddle mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup in a glass.
  2. Add rum and cooled black tea, stirring to combine.
  3. Fill the glass with ice and top with club soda.
  4. Garnish with more mint leaves and a lime slice.

These famous Turkish cocktails not only showcase the country’s rich flavors