7 Famous Turkish Drinks
Turkey is a land of rich culture, deep-rooted traditions, and unique culinary delights. Among its most celebrated treasures are the traditional Turkish beverages that have been enjoyed for centuries. Whether hot or cold, sweet or savory, these drinks reflect the country’s diverse cultural influences and regional flavors. In this article, we explore 7 famous Turkish drinks that every traveler, culture lover, or food enthusiast must try.
1. Turkish Tea
Turkish tea, known as “çay” in Turkish, is perhaps the most widely consumed beverage in the country. Unlike Western-style teas, Turkish tea is brewed in a special two-tiered teapot called a “çaydanlık.” The result is a rich, reddish-black tea served in small, tulip-shaped glasses.
As one of the 7 famous Turkish drinks, tea is an integral part of Turkish hospitality. It is served at every opportunity from homes to business meetings, and even at barber shops. The tea culture in Turkey is so deep that it’s not just a drink, but a way of social bonding. Typically, it’s served with sugar, but without milk, allowing the full-bodied flavor of the tea leaves to shine through.
2. Turkish Coffee
Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, Turkish coffee is a symbol of tradition and ceremony. Ground very finely and prepared in a small long-handled pot called a “cezve,” Turkish coffee is brewed slowly and served unfiltered in small porcelain cups.
Among the 7 famous Turkish drinks, Turkish coffee stands out for its cultural significance. The coffee is known for its strong taste, thick foam on top, and grounds at the bottom, which are sometimes used for fortune-telling a fun and mystical tradition known as “fal bakma.” It’s not just a drink; it’s an experience that invites conversation, contemplation, and connection.
3. Ayran
If there’s one beverage that perfectly complements the rich and spicy flavors of Turkish cuisine, it’s ayran. Made by blending yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt, ayran is a refreshing and healthy drink commonly served with kebabs, döner, or pide.
This cool and probiotic-rich option is proudly listed among the 7 famous Turkish drinks. In many parts of Turkey, it is served foamy in copper cups and is sometimes even spiced up with mint or cucumber for added freshness.
4. Boza
Boza is a fermented drink made from grains such as millet, bulgur, or wheat. With a thick, almost pudding-like consistency, boza has a slightly sour and sweet taste. It is traditionally consumed in the winter months and is served with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few roasted chickpeas on top.
Its nostalgic charm and nutritional value earn it a place in the 7 famous Turkish drinks list. The drink is often associated with the historic Vefa Bozacısı in Istanbul, one of the oldest boza shops in the country.
5. Şalgam
Often mistaken for beet juice, şalgam is actually made from fermented black carrots, turnips, and bulgur. It is a savory, tangy, and spicy drink that’s especially popular in the southeastern region of Turkey, particularly Adana and Mersin.
As one of the 7 famous Turkish drinks, şalgam is most commonly paired with Adana kebab and is often served alongside rakı. Locals love its bold flavor and claim it’s a great hangover cure.
6. Salep
Salep is a warm, creamy beverage made from the powdered tubers of the orchid plant. Mixed with milk and sweetened with sugar, it is a winter favorite that is topped with cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
Undoubtedly among the 7 famous Turkish drinks, salep is treasured during the colder months. Due to the rarity of the orchid root used in its preparation, authentic salep is considered quite valuable.
7. Sherbet
Turkish sherbet is a traditional sweet beverage made from fruits, herbs, and flower extracts, often infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, or rose water. Served cold, sherbet was historically a royal drink in the Ottoman palaces, and it has retained its popularity over centuries.
As the final entry in our list of 7 famous Turkish drinks, sherbet offers both flavor and festivity. Today, it is being rediscovered in modern Turkish gastronomy as a refreshing and natural alternative to sugary soft drinks.
From the rich, aromatic Turkish coffee to the refreshing, probiotic-rich ayran, and the comforting salep to the ceremonial sherbet, each of these 7 famous Turkish drinks tells a story about Turkey’s culinary heritage and cultural identity.
Whether you’re a visitor exploring Turkish streets or someone simply curious about the country’s traditions, these 7 famous Turkish drinks are an essential part of the experience.
So next time you want to taste a bit of Turkey, skip the soda and reach for one of these 7 famous Turkish drinks. You’ll not only quench your thirst but also savor centuries of history in every sip.
FAQ: 7 Famous Turkish Drinks
What is the most popular drink in Turkey?
Turkish tea (çay) is by far the most popular among the 7 Famous Turkish Drinks. It is consumed daily by millions and is part of everyday life across the country.
Is Turkish coffee strong?
Yes, Turkish coffee one of the 7 Famous Turkish Drinks is known for its strong and intense flavor. It’s served in small cups, unfiltered, and often with thick foam.
Is ayran healthy?
Absolutely. As one of the 7 Famous Turkish Drinks, ayran is rich in probiotics, aids digestion, and cools the body—ideal for hot climates and heavy meals.
How is boza made?
Boza, listed among the 7 Famous Turkish Drinks, is made by fermenting grains like millet or bulgur. It’s thick, slightly tangy, and enjoyed cold with cinnamon and roasted chickpeas.
What does şalgam taste like?
Şalgam, another of the 7 Famous Turkish Drinks has a savory, sour, and spicy flavor. It’s made from fermented vegetables and is often enjoyed with spicy Turkish dishes.
