Overview » Culture » That Tremendous Smell That Brings Everyone Looking for One… Turkish Coffee on the Steam…
A handful of coffee beans… Gathered from tropical lands and ground to powder by the grinding hands of time, these magical grains turn into a culture and a ritual as they find their consistency. Coffee is not just a beverage; it is a moment in time where friendships are cemented, time stands still, and we do not want the conversations to end in the sweetest place.
Turkish coffee is a work of art that is created by finely grinding coffee beans in expert hands and patiently cooking them on embers or over a slow fire. The foam is abundant, the consistency dense, the flavour deep… Each cup contains a heritage of hundreds of years. This unique tradition, which dates back to the Ottoman Empire, has found its place everywhere from coffeehouses to palace tables, from friendly gatherings to the serene corners of solitude.
In Search of a Cup of Coffee: A Journey from Tradition to Flavour
A unique flavour resulting from the slow cooking of finely ground coffee beans in a copper coffee pot… Turkish coffee is not only a beverage but also a culture. Accompanying friendly gatherings for centuries, being the cornerstone of deep conversations and meeting with hopes when the fortune is closed, this ancient flavour hides the spirit of time.
Turkish coffee, which continues to exist as a ritual everywhere from Ottoman palaces to coffeehouses, from the centrepiece of the mansion to the humblest homes, is distinguished from other coffees with its unique cooking method and presentation. The fact that it is cooked without boiling, has plenty of foam and is served in a small cup gives it a noble identity. When you take a sip, it makes you feel a heritage from the past, first with its intense aroma and then with the soft grounds that remain on the palate.
A cup that warms the hands at a friendly gathering in the summer, a cup that warms the hands by the stove in the winter accompanied by a cool wind… It is drunk as a partner to the sadness of autumn by mixing with the floral scents of spring. Even though the time changes and the place differs, Turkish coffee is always the same for every day with its smell, taste and warmth that leaves forty years of memories.
Sweet, medium or plain… Each cup reflects the mood of the drinker. When accompanied by Turkish delight or dates, this elegant presentation is a sign of hospitality. When the coffee cup is closed and turned upside down, the lines of fate appear in the grounds and fortune telling begins with whispered curiosity.
A Source of Both Flavor, Culture and Healing
A tradition of more than 1000 years, Turkish coffee is also served to the families of the couples before marriage. The groom candidate who can drink salted coffee, which is one of the most important Turkish traditions, is considered to have promised everyone that he will make his wife happy for life.
A cup of coffee is not only a flavour but also a source of healing.
A cup of Turkish coffee every day:
☕️ It purifies the body with its antioxidants.
☕️ Opens the mind.
☕️ It is good for the heart.
☕️ In spite of fatigue, it is a friend to sleepless nights.
A cup of coffee commits one to forty years of friendship!
What is it they say? ‘A cup of coffee commits one to forty years of friendship.’ Turkish coffee keeps memories fresh, reinforces friendships and continues to be one of the most valuable parts of our culture with its timeless flavour. The story of this saying is as follows:
One day, a janissary living in Istanbul during the Ottoman period enters a Greek coffee shop and asks for a cup of coffee. The coffeeman offers a cup of coffee to his guest. Years pass, the borders of the Ottoman Empire expand and some lands are conquered. At this time, the janissary, as the commander of the Ottoman army, becomes responsible for the administration of a region.
One day, a Greek among the captured local people attracts his attention. When he examines the man closely, he realises that he is the coffee seller who offered him coffee years ago. He prevents him from being harmed and frees him. When the coffeehouse owner was surprised and asked why he had done him this favour, the janissary gave the following answer:
“A cup of coffee commits one to forty years of friendship.”
In Turkish culture, coffee is not only a beverage but also a symbol of hospitality and friendship. Serving coffee to someone meant valuing them. For this reason, it was believed that even a cup of coffee carried the meaning of a friendship and memory that would last for many years.
How will you have your Turkish coffee in the new season at Kilikya Palace?
Overview » Culture » That Tremendous Smell That Brings Everyone Looking for One… Turkish Coffee on the Steam…
Turkish delight continues to appeal to both the palate and the heart as one of the indispensable desserts of Turkish cuisine for centuries. It is not only a dessert, but also a symbol of hospitality, elegant treats and cultural heritage. Many aspects of Turkish delight, from what it is to its history, from its varieties to the best accompaniments with Turkish delight, are included in the rest of our article.
What is Turkish Delight?
Lokum; It is a Turkish dessert prepared on the basis of sugar, water and starch, soft in consistency, pleasant to chew, and disintegrating in the mouth. This flavour, which has survived from the Ottoman period to the present day, has been enriched with many flavours such as pistachio, walnut, rose, lemon and mastic gum.
History of Turkish Delight
Although the origin of Turkish delight dates back to the 15th century, it was popularised in the 18th century. Lokum, which was frequently served in the palace kitchen during the reign of Abdülhamid II, attracted the attention of European travellers and became known worldwide under the name ‘Turkish Delight’. Turkish delight also plays an important role in Turkey’s cultural promotion.
How Does Turkish Delight Taste?
Although the taste of Turkish delight varies according to the ingredients and flavours used in its production, it is generally slightly sweet, aromatic and refreshing. Although it is sugary, it is not suffocating. When cooked in the right proportions, it has a soft, non-stick and easily chewable consistency.
Types of Turkish Delight
Turkish delight has flavours and ingredients that differ according to regions. Here are some of the most known Turkish delight varieties:
Turkish Delight with Roses: It stands out with its light aroma and pinkish colour.
Turkish Delight with Pistachio: It is a satisfying type with plenty of pistachios.
Turkish Delight with Walnut: It is preferred with its dense consistency and harmony with walnut.
Gumdrop Turkish Delight: It is especially common in the Aegean Region.
Cocoa Turkish Delight: It is a specially produced variety for chocolate lovers.
In Which Region is Turkish Delight Produced Mostly?
Although Turkish delight is produced in many regions of Turkey, Afyonkarahisar, Istanbul, Safranbolu and Osmaniye are especially famous for their Turkish delight. Afyon Turkish delight stands out with its soft texture and quality pistachios. Safranbolu Turkish delight has gained fame by receiving a geographical sign.
What goes well with Turkish Delight?
Turkish delight is usually served with Turkish coffee. Especially pistachio or rose Turkish delight served with black Turkish coffee creates a nice balance with the bitterness of coffee. It can also be served with tea, fruit juice or sherbet on special occasions. The fact that it is frequently served at festivals and weddings makes lokum a ‘celebration dessert’.
A Delicious Souvenir from Turkey: Turkish Delight
Every trip to Turkey is an experience full of colourful marketplaces, historical textures, warm hospitality and of course unforgettable tastes. One of the sweetest traces of this journey is undoubtedly lokum, which has been around for centuries.
Turkish delight is a culture packed in elegant boxes, a flavour that delights the palate and a memory that stays in the heart. While it appeals to every palate with its rose, pistachio, walnut or gumdrop varieties, its harmony with Turkish coffee makes it almost a tradition.
A few boxes of Turkish delight that you will throw in your bag on your way back home will not only be a dessert but also the best souvenir of a journey. This small gift you will take to your loved ones is a meaningful symbol reflecting the warmth, elegance and flavour culture of Turkey. Because each grain of Turkish delight carries the traces of the past, the elegance of today and the sweetness of friendships.
This traditional flavour, which dates back to the Ottoman Empire, also reflects the cultural richness of Turkey. Whether as a treat or as a gift, Turkish delight always leaves a pleasant taste in the mouth and a beautiful memory in the heart.
A sweet heritage is kept alive for generations. Turkish delight is the most delicious part of this heritage.
Overview » Culture » That Tremendous Smell That Brings Everyone Looking for One… Turkish Coffee on the Steam…
Breakfast is considered one of the first and most important meals of the day and is celebrated in unique ways in different cultures around the world. The breakfast culture of each country is a reflection of the local cuisine, climate and lifestyle. Breakfast, which has been a centuries-old eating and drinking culture, has changed with the changing times in every community.
After World War II, with the increase in the number of factory workers, the increasing urban population caused a change in breakfast culture. As a result of long working hours, the energy deficit to be taken daily has increased, so the varieties consumed at breakfast have also increased.
The importance of breakfast worldwide has increased day by day. People who have breakfast every day have both a healthy body and a pleasant social activity with their close environment.
Starting the Day with Energy: Breakfast fills the stomach after an overnight fast and boosts the body’s energy levels. It is especially important for providing the energy needed throughout the day after a long period without eating. A balanced breakfast helps maintain alertness and improve concentration.
Speeds Up Metabolism: Breakfast boosts metabolism, allowing the body to burn more calories throughout the day. Therefore, skipping breakfast is generally not recommended for a healthy lifestyle.
A Cultural Routine: Breakfast is seen as a social event in many cultures. It is common for families or friends to gather for long and enjoyable breakfasts, especially on weekends.
A well-planned breakfast contains protein, fibre, healthy fats and carbohydrates. These nutrients provide most of the vitamins and minerals the body needs. Eggs, whole grain products, dairy products, vegetables and fruits are indispensable parts of breakfast. Eating breakfast is one of the cornerstones of a healthy lifestyle. It helps to regulate blood sugar levels, increase the ability to focus and provide a feeling of satiety for a long time.
Turkey’s Secret to a Happy Start to the Day; Mixed (Serpme) Breakfast!
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, having a regular breakfast provides a sense of routine and security. Starting the day with a structured meal can lead to feeling better psychologically. Breakfast is seen as a way to begin the day positively. The taste of delicious foods, along with fresh coffee or tea, brings a sense of peace, positively affecting one’s mood. A slow and enjoyable breakfast helps people feel more content and at ease.
The term “kahvaltı” in Turkish, which means breakfast, originated during the Ottoman era. It was used to describe snacks consumed before drinking coffee in the morning, combining the words for coffee (“kahve”) and under/before (“altı”). Thus, “kahve altı” referred to “before coffee.”
Breakfast has been an integral part of Turkish cuisine for centuries, serving as an opportunity for families to start their day together. Across Turkey, certain staple ingredients form the basic foundation of breakfast, reflecting local traditions. Breakfast tables also provide an opportunity to showcase local products. Organic honey, homemade jams, local cheeses, and fresh bread are offered, promoting these goods and providing economic benefits.
In Turkey, the mixed style of breakfast is particularly popular. It is usually enjoyed over prolonged periods, especially on weekends, encouraging hospitality, sharing, and extended conversations.
The word “mixed” signifies the scattering or spreading of a wide variety of dishes across the breakfast table. This style of serving involves offering numerous small portions of different foods, allowing everyone to choose according to their taste preferences.
Generally, cheese types (white cheese, cheddar cheese, tulum cheese), olive types (black, green, spicy), fresh vegetables (tomato, cucumber, pepper), honey, clotted cream, jam types, butter, various delicatessen products (sucuk, pastrami) and eggs (Menemen, fried eggs, omelettes), pastries, bagels, pastries and fresh bread varieties are available. While the honey-cream duo is a very popular choice for dessert, chocolate paste or fruit jams are also frequently served.
Tea is an indispensable part of the mixed breakfast, served continuously in small, tulip-shaped glasses. When the tea runs out, a fresh pot is promptly brewed, facilitating prolonged sitting and chatting.
Mixed Breakfast is a social event where families, friends, or large groups gather to enjoy a leisurely time together. Especially during weekends and holidays, it becomes a long, conversation-filled affair. In rural areas or villages, such breakfasts offer distinct flavors through the use of natural products like village butter, homemade jams, village bread, and organic eggs.
Mixed Breakfast Shows Richness and Diversity According to Regions of Turkey!
Each region brings its own local products and cuisine to the breakfast table, which increases the richness of the mixed breakfast. Here are the characteristics of mixed breakfasts served in various regions of Turkey:
Aegean Region
Olives and Olive Oil: Indispensable for Aegean breakfasts are olive varieties and appetisers with olive oil. Green and black olives, olive oil flavoured with thyme, fresh vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers are always present on the table.
Herbed Cheeses and Herbs: Local tulum cheese and curd cheese, as well as the famous herbs of the Aegean region (radicchio, rocket, nettle) are on the breakfast table.
Homemade Jams and Honey: Homemade jams and honey also have an important place in Aegean cuisine. Especially jams made from fruits such as tangerines, figs and grapes are highly preferred.
Warm Aegean Bread and Bagels: Warm breads, bagels and buns with plenty of sesame seeds accompany breakfast.
Black Sea Region
Mıhlama (Kuymak): The most famous flavour of the Black Sea mixed breakfasts, mihlama is prepared with melted cheese, butter and corn flour. This dish, full of warm and stretching cheeses, is especially warming on cold days.
Butter and Cheese Types: Local butter, local cheese varieties such as minzi (cottage cheese) and kolot cheese are indispensable for breakfast.
Corn Bread and Fresh Pita: Corn bread is frequently included in Black Sea breakfasts. Warm pita bread is also served with it.
Roasting with Egg: Roasted meat mixed with egg is especially rich in protein.
Eastern Anatolia Region
Kavut and Tandır Bread: In Eastern Anatolia, foods made with roasted wheat flour called kavut and bread varieties baked in tandoor are frequently seen at breakfast.
Cheese Types: Special cheeses such as Erzincan tulum and Kars gruyere stand out on the table. These cheeses are very famous due to the cold climate and animal husbandry culture of the region.
Cream and Honey: Natural highland honey and homemade clotted cream are among the sweet flavours of breakfast in this region.
Pastrami and Sucuk: Breakfasts in this vast geography stretching from Erzurum to Kayseri are enriched with quality sausages and pastrami.
Southeastern Anatolia Region
Katmer and Pastry Types: Katmer, pancakes and various pastries stand out in Southeastern breakfasts. Especially antep katmer is prepared with clotted cream, pistachio and sherbet and served as a sweet breakfast.
Menengiç Coffee and Tea: Menengiç coffee, one of the special drinks of the region, is served with breakfast. Of course, tea is also a must.
Acuka and Zahter: Spicy and paste flavours such as acuka (a paste with walnuts and peppers) and zahter (a type of thyme) add a different taste to breakfast.
Cheese and Olive Varieties: Curd cheeses, tulum cheese and local olive varieties are frequently found in the mixed breakfasts of Southeastern Anatolia.
Mediterranean Region
Olive Varieties and Olive Oil: Thanks to the fertile soils of the Mediterranean, olive varieties and high quality olive oils are widely used for breakfast.
Greens and Fresh Vegetables: Fresh greens such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, mint and parsley are a colourful and healthy part of the table.
Cheese Pies and Pancakes: Yufka bread, cheese pies and pancakes are frequently included in Mediterranean breakfast.
Citrus Jams: Jams made from citrus fruits such as orange, tangerine and lemon form the sweet side of breakfast.
Central Anatolia Region
Pastrami and Sucuk: Kayseri’s famous pastrami and sausage have an important place in the mixed breakfasts of Central Anatolia. It is usually served with egg.
Cream and Honey: Fresh clotted cream, natural honey and molasses varieties are frequently found on breakfast tables in this region.
Village Cheese and Tulum Cheese: Local cheese varieties are served with fresh bread and pita bread.
Bread Types: Local bread types such as phyllo bread, flatbread and tandoori bread stand out in Central Anatolian breakfasts.
Marmara Region
Delicatessen Products: Breakfast tables in Istanbul, Edirne and other Marmara provinces are usually full of delicatessen products. Varieties such as salami, sausage, bacon are frequently found.
Various Cheeses: Various cheeses such as feta cheese, cheddar cheese, cream cheese take place on breakfast tables in the Marmara region.
Fresh Bread and Bagels: Different types of bread such as Istanbul bagel, rye bread and baguette are also served on the tables.
Homemade Jams: Jam varieties from different regions of Marmara add flavour to the breakfast.
Mixed breakfast is a culture enriched with local flavours all around Turkey. Each region brings its own local products and traditions to these tables, making breakfast not only a meal but also a cultural experience.
