As a little girl, smitten by the Istanbul Strait, there were few questions occupying my mind when boarding the ferry in the winter months. Well, to be frank, there was one question that truly preoccupied me.
In Ottoman-Türkiye, street vendors were spotted carrying copper pitchers full of salep, a traditional drink that still keeps Turks warm throughout the winter. Salep was sought after as much for its comforting taste as it was for its many health benefits.
Salep was not just a street beverage, however; it was frequently prepared for guests in homes as well. In the evenings, if one received visitors on short notice, light refreshments called “” would be served, including fresh or dried fruits and nuts, along with salep or boza, another winter drink, this time made of sweet millet.