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What Turkish Drinks To Try While In Türkiye
Are you ready to quench your thirst and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Türkiye? Look no further than this guide on the must-try drinks in Turkey that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied. From sweetened teas to strong coffees, fruity sherbets, and boozy spirits, we’ve got it all covered!
So grab a glass and join us as we explore the diverse world of Turkish beverages.
Turkish Drinks
Turkey is a land of many cultures, and its drinks reflect this diversity. From traditional Turkish tea to modern cocktails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Türkiye.
Turkish tea is perhaps the most iconic of all Turkish drinks. This black tea is usually brewed with a bit of lemon and served with sugar on the side. It’s a refreshing drink that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ayran is another popular drink in Turkey. This yogurt-based beverage is often enjoyed as a refresher after a meal or workout. It’s also a common sight at Turkish coffeehouses.
Rakı is an alcoholic beverage that’s been part of Turkish culture for centuries. It’s made from fermented grapes and flavored with aniseed. Rakı is usually served with meze (appetizers) and drunk slowly throughout the course of a meal.
Finally, there are modern cocktails that can be found in Türkiye’s trendy bars and clubs. These drinks are often inspired by traditional Turkish flavors but with a twist. So whether you’re looking for something classic or new, there’s sure to be a drink in Turkey that suits your taste!
Alcoholic Turkish Drinks To Try In Turkey
Turkey is a land of many delights, and its drink menu is no exception. Here are some of the most popular alcoholic beverages to try on your next trip to Türkiye:
Raki
Also known as Lion’s Milk, this anise-flavored spirit is the national drink of Turkey. It’s usually enjoyed as an apéritif or with meze (small dishes). This anise-flavored spirit is typically drunk neat or on the rocks, and it’s perfect for sipping on while enjoying the company of your friends.
Turkish Wine
Türkiye has a long viticulture history and produces red and white wines. There are many types and varieties of Turkish wine, so it can be challenging to know where to start. However, there are a few basics that you should know about Turkish wine before making your selection.
It is important to note that most Turkish wines are red. When choosing a Turkish wine, it is important to consider the region where it was produced. The three main wine-producing regions in Türkiye are the Aegean coast, Central Anatolia, and Thrace. Each region has its unique climate and soil conditions, resulting in different types of wines being produced in each area.
Some of the most popular grape varieties used in Turkish wines include Bogazkere, Karasakiz, Narince, and Öküzgözü.
Now that you know a little bit more about Turkish wine, you should be ready to make your selection!
Efes Pilsen
The most popular beer in Turkey, Efes Pilsen, is a light lager that’s perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day as it is light and refreshing. Efes Pilsen is available in most supermarkets and convenience stores in Türkiye.
Turkish Cocktails
There are all sorts of delicious cocktails served in Turkey that make use of traditional Turkish ingredients. One popular option is the Turkish Delight, a sweet and refreshing drink made with rosewater, lemon juice, and of course, Turkish Delight.
Another popular choice is the Sultan’s Delight, a richer concoction featuring brandy, coffee liqueur, and chocolate.
For something truly unique, try the Cherry Bitter, a drink made with cherry juice, aniseed liqueur, and Angostura bitters. No matter what your taste buds are craving, you’re sure to find a delicious cocktail to enjoy in Turkey!
Non-Alcoholic Turkish Drinks
In Turkey, it’s common to see people enjoying non-alcoholic drinks like tea and coffee. Turkish tea, or çay, is usually served black and strong, with sugar on the side. Coffee is also popular in Türkiye and can be found in almost every café. Turkish coffee is made by boiling water and ground coffee beans together, resulting in a thick and flavorful cup of coffee.
Other popular non-alcoholic drinks in Turkey include ayran and boza. Ayran is a refreshing yogurt drink, while boza is a type of fermented wheat drink. Both are popular choices for quenching thirst on a hot day.
So whether you’re looking for a caffeinated pick-me-up or a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage to enjoy, be sure to try one of these popular Turkish drinks during your next visit to Türkiye!
Turkish Tea
Brewed with care and rich in flavor, Turkish tea is a delicious way to relax and enjoy life. There are many different types and flavors of Turkish tea, each with its own unique taste and aroma. Here are some of the most varieties we enjoyed best on our travels to Türkiye:
- Rosehip Tea: This floral-scented tea is made with dried rose hips and has a slightly sweet flavor. It is often enjoyed after meals as a digestive aid
- Mint Tea: Made with fresh mint leaves, this refreshing tea is perfect for sipping on hot summer days. It can also be used as a natural remedy for indigestion and nausea
- Cinnamon Tea: This warming tea is made with cinnamon sticks and has a sweet-spicy flavor. It is said to boost circulation and help fight colds and flu
- Cardamom Tea: This aromatic tea is made with cardamom pods and has a sweet-tart flavor. It is often enjoyed after meals to help with digestion
- Clove Tea: This flavorful tea is made with cloves and has a slightly sweet taste. It is said to be good for the immune system and can also help relieve pain from headaches or toothaches when taken as an infusion or compress
- Sage Tea: This earthy tea is made with fresh or dried sage leaves and has a slightly bitter taste. It is said to be good for the digestive system and can help reduce stress levels
- Chamomile Tea: This soothing tea is made with chamomile flowers and has a slightly sweet flavor. It is often enjoyed before bed as it can help induce sleep and relaxation.
Şalgam Suyu – Pickled Turnip Juice
Şalgam suyu is a popular Turkish drink made from pickled turnips. Şalgam suyu is slightly salty and tangy, and has a unique flavor many people enjoy. It is often served with meals or as a refreshing drink on hot days.
Turkish Boza
Turkish boza is a fermented drink made from wheat flour, water, and yeast. It has a slightly sour and sweet taste and is often served with cinnamon and ground walnuts. Boza is traditionally made in copper kettles over an open fire and is left to ferment for several days.
Sahlep
This wintertime favorite is made from orchid root powder and milk and has a thick, creamy consistency. It’s typically flavored with cinnamon and served hot.
Ayran
This tasty Turkish yogurt drink is traditionally made with water, yogurt, and salt. It is a refreshing and healthy drink that is perfect for your Turkish breakfast. Turkish Ayran is also drunk on hot summer days and served with kebabs or köfte at lunch.
Best Places To Drink In Türkiye
Turkey is home to some of the best places to drink in the world. From traditional Turkish coffeehouses to modern bars, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to drink in Türkiye:
Turkish Coffeehouses
These coffeehouses are a must-visit when in Turkey. They serve traditional Turkish coffee, which is thick and strong. The coffeehouses also offer a variety of other drinks, such as tea, lemonade, and soda.
Modern Bars
If you’re looking for a more modern drinking experience, Türkiye has plenty of bars to choose from. These bars often have live music and a great selection of international beers and wines.
Raki Bars
Raki bars are a great place to try this unique drink and catch up with friends over some meze (appetizers).
Tea Houses
Turkey is famous for its black tea, which is often served with lemon and honey. Tea houses can be found all over the country and make for a relaxing afternoon or evening out.
Juice Bars
For those who don’t drink alcohol, there are many juice bars around Turkey that serve up fresh fruit juices and smoothies. These are perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day or getting an energy boost on a day of sightseeing.
Are you planning a trip to Türkiye and curious about the local drink culture? Or perhaps you’re just looking to expand your palate with new and exciting flavors. Whatever brings you here, we’ve got answers to all your burning questions about Turkish drinks! So please sit back, relax, and let’s quench our thirst for knowledge together! From traditional teas and coffees to unique alcoholic beverages, get ready for a refreshing journey through some of the most popular drinks in Turkey.
Do Turkish people drink alcohol?
Yes, Turkish people do drink alcohol. However, it is not as common as in other countries. In Türkiye, alcohol is typically only consumed on special occasions or with meals. When drinking alcohol, Turks usually stick to beer or wine. Hard liquor is not as popular in Turkey.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Turkey?
According to the U.S. Department of State, the tap water in Turkey is safe to drink. However, travelers may want to avoid drinking tap water in rural areas or outside of major cities. Bottled water is widely available and recommended in these cases.
It is also recommended to use bottled water when brushing your teeth.
How many types of tea do Turks drinks in Turkey?
Turkey is a land of tea drinkers. And they have too many types to count!
Turks consume an estimated 3.6 cups of tea per day, which is more than any other country in the world. The most popular type of tea in Türkiye is black tea, which is usually served with sugar and lemon. Different types of tea popular in Turkey include green, herbal, and fruit tea.
Some of the more traditional types of tea drunk in Türkiye include Rize tea, a black tea with a hint of lemon; apple tea, which is made from dried apples and cinnamon; and rosehip tea, which is made from the fruit of the rose.
