Have you ever tried Turkish coffee (Türk Kahvesi)? For many, it’s an acquired taste. Because, unlike filter coffees and the instant varieties, Türk Kahvesi is not filtered. As a result of that, a thick, muddy residue will rest on the bottom of the cup. Deeply unpleasant for those that are not in the know as …
Tis the season of mulled wine. Memories of freezing cold December nights in Manchester city centre. All of them made toasty, comforting and festive by the sight of a series of wooden huts in the square, softly lit and packed with handmade goodies, European foods. And stalls with huge simmering cauldrons of spiced, hot, red …
The Turks are very proud of their coffee and describe Turkish coffee as their gift to the world. Ask anyone in Turkey what the most famous brand of Turkish coffee is and, without hesitation, the reply will be Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi. These days, under the ownership of Mehmet Efendi’s grandchildren, Kurukahveci Mehmet Efendi is an …
Picture the scene. You’re lazing on a sun lounger along Belcekiz Beach in Ölüdeniz. It’s the height of summer with temperatures heading towards 100 degrees and the sun’s intense heat reflects off the pebbles on the beach. Perspiration and spray from the crashing waves leaves your lips dry and salty. There’s only one thing for …
The Turkish yoghurt drink, ayran, has caused much confusion – dare we even say distress – over the years. By that, we mean confusion for the foreign visitor; especially British holidaymakers looking to buy ingredients for their essential morning cup of tea! Here’s a little tale to explain what we mean… Ayran – Drinking Yoghurt, …
Rakı: a Turkish institution; the chosen tipple of millions of Turks; sampled by many foreign visitors to Turkey (with varying degrees of success); a clear, 40-45% proof aniseed-flavoured alcoholic drink; transforms into a cloudy, milky-white liquid when water is added; known to many as ‘lion’s milk’; known to us as ‘loopy juice!’ I’ve never been …
There is nothing better than seeing one of these signs in the Fethiye hot, summer months of July, August and September. When the weather is like this and you are dragging your weary body around the Tuesday market in Fethiye, the Kar Şerbeti sign is very welcome – think sighting of an oasis in the …