Non-Alcoholic Beverages

My culinary journey through these three countries would not be complete without the mention of their non-alcoholic beverages.  I would like to start with Turkey.  Aryan is a Turkish yoghurt drink which has been a favourite of Turks for thousands of years.  It is made of yoghurt, water and salt - much like our 'lassi' back home.  This lip-smacking, salty, frothy and healthy drink is a perfect way to rehydrate on a hot humid day.

Besides the Aryan, the Turks also drink tea, 'cay' all day.  Another Turkish drink that has become world famous is the Turkish coffee.This coffee is made from Arabica bean ground very finely.  The coffee is served in a very specific way along with water.  It is believed that drinking a sip of water before drinking coffee cleanses your palate.  Taking a sip of water after drinking coffee clears your mouth of fine grounds of coffee.  It rehydrates you too.  Tradition also states that after the guest has consumed coffee the cup is turned upside down on the saucer, the hostess then performs  fortune reading from the grounds left in the cup.  I would be interested to know if you are also familiar with any such traditions that you would like to share with me?  I also remember my parents mentioning that in the middle east after you finish drinking kahwa (coffee) you give your cup a slight shake.  This is an indication that you are done drinking and do not want to be replenished.

Let us move on to Spain. Who has not heard about seville oranges??  Everywhere around the city you see trees laden with orange globes.  I was curious to know why these trees were laden with oranges and yet no one  was seen eating them,  Our guide shared an amazing fact about the seville oranges.  Apparently they are sour and bitter so they are not eaten like regular oranges but can be used only in marmalades.  Any oranges you would eat were grown in orange orchards outside the city.  These were delicious.   

Indian Beverages	Turkish Coffee
Turkish Coffee	Turkish Tea
Fresh Orange Juice Machine	Ayran

                                                                                                             Fruit Beverages