Turkish Tea
Turkish tea, also known as çay (pronounced “chai”), is a popular and traditional beverage in Turkey. It holds significant cultural and social importance and is consumed throughout the day by people of all ages. Turkish tea is typically served hot and has a distinct dark red color.
Preparation of Turkish tea
Turkish tea is brewed using a special teapot called a çaydanlık. The lower part of the teapot holds boiling water, while the upper part contains loose black tea leaves. The tea leaves are steeped in the hot water for a while until a strong concentrate is formed. This concentrated tea is then diluted with hot water according to personal preference, usually at a ratio of one-third tea concentrate to two-thirds hot water.
Double teapot brewing
The çaydanlık consists of two stacked pots, allowing the tea to be brewed without losing its strength. The tea concentrate remains in the upper pot, while the hot water is kept boiling in the lower pot.
Tulip-shaped glasses
Turkish tea is traditionally served in small, transparent, tulip-shaped glasses called “fincan.” These glasses allow people to appreciate the deep red color of the tea. The glass is usually held by the rim or the handle to avoid burning fingers since the tea is served piping hot.
Sugar cubes
Turkish tea is often enjoyed with sugar. Sugar cubes, known as “klikon,” are placed in the mouth and sipped alongside the tea. Individuals can control the sweetness by adjusting the number of sugar cubes consumed.
Turkish tea culture
Drinking tea in Turkey is a social activity and is deeply ingrained in the country’s culture. It is common for friends, family members, or colleagues to gather and share conversations over multiple rounds of tea. Tea houses and outdoor tea gardens, known as çay bahçesi, are popular meeting places for people to enjoy tea together.
All-day beverage
Turkish tea is consumed at any time of the day and is often offered to guests as a gesture of hospitality. It is commonly served during breakfast, after meals, and during breaks throughout the day.
Turkish tea production
Although Turkey is a significant consumer of tea, it also produces its own tea leaves. The country’s main tea-growing regions are located along the Black Sea coast, where the mild and humid climate is suitable for tea cultivation.
Turkish tea is not only a beloved beverage but also a symbol of Turkish hospitality, warmth, and socialization. If you ever have the chance to visit Turkey, trying a cup of traditional Turkish tea is highly recommended.