Turkish Ice Cream: A Sweet Summer Delight

Summer in Turkey is a paradise for anyone who loves ice cream. One of the reasons for this summer paradise is the unique and delectable Turkish ice cream, known as Dondurma. This ice cream is a full package of sweetness, creaminess, stretchiness, and stickiness, making it a truly unforgettable treat.

Ingredients and Origin of Dondurma

The origins of Dondurma can be traced back to an aromatic resin called mastic, which is a key ingredient. The recipe for this ice cream is known as Dondurma and comprises of milk, sugar, and a special powder called salep, which is extracted from orchid bulbs. Salep helps to create the thick and unique texture of the ice cream.

Due to the special ingredients and the process of making it, Dondurma is available in various flavors. Some of the popular flavors include chocolate, vanilla, pistachio, strawberry, and mango. Each flavor offers a unique taste and experience, making it a must-try for any ice cream lover visiting Turkey.

The Authentic Turkish Ice Cream Experience

While Dondurma is available across Turkey, it is truly best when you find the genuine ones. Kahramanmarau015F, a city located in Southeastern Anatolia, is particularly famous for its authentic Dondurma. The best ice cream is made from goat milk and includes sahlep, an ingredient extracted from orchids. A teaspoonful of sahlep is boiled in milk and is consumed as a healthy hot drink with cinnamon in winter. This ingredient is quite expensive because the orchids used are not abundant and can only be extracted infrequently.

While Kahramanmarau015F was originally called Mara, it earned the name Kahraman, which means hero, due to the heroic defense of its residents against the French during and after World War I. Unlike regular ice cream, Dondurma is not frozen; its texture is created through the use of special ingredients and a unique stirring process. Therefore, it is very sticky and cannot be torn apart, making it a unique ice cream experience.

Experience the History and Tradition of Dondurma in Istanbul

While in Istanbul, you can see Dondurma vendors in traditional Ottoman outfits, often performing a common ice cream joke or prank. Since Dondurma is very sticky, you cannot cut it into small pieces by can often spot these sellers by their colorful carts and outfits, adding to the charm of experiencing authentic Turkish culture. If you want to experience the process of making Dondurma, I would highly recommend watching a video of it being made, which will give you a better understanding of this unique ice cream.

Find the genuine Dondurma to enjoy the authentic Turkish ice cream experience. Whether you visit Kahramanmarau015F or Istanbul, be prepared to be amazed by the delightful and sticky Dondurma, a true Turkish delicacy.