Jun 06 How to Experience a Taste of Turkey Without a Passport
SPONSORED CONTENT
Whether it’s for Turkey’s world-class hospitality, or simply for its world-famous foods (think Turkish bread, confectioneries, luscious olive oils and mouth-watering Gozleme) it’s no wonder Turkey ranks as the 6th most popular tourist destination in the world. For decades, tourists from across the globe have been drawn to Turkey’s enchanting Mediterranean seaside resorts, as well as its countless cultural and historical attractions.
Unfortunately, traveling to this beautiful Eastern European country isn’t always possible. If you’re looking to experience the culture of Turkey, but don’t want the hassle of packing and looking for your passport (not to mention the expense!), here are a few ways to enjoy Turkish culture at home. In fact, you may be surprised by how many of your favorite foods and everyday items have Turkish origins!
So put on your favorite Tarkan album, rest your feet on your nearest ottoman, and read on!
Pistachios
Who doesn’t love the humble pistachio? From ice cream to cookies, pistachios improve almost every dessert they’re added to. Turkey, which is the third largest producer of pistachios in the world, contributes over 20% of all pistachios worldwide. Why not look up your favorite pistachio recipe to bring home a taste of Turkey?
Image from Serving Joy
Nestlé Damak Chocolate
Since 1933, Nestlé Damak has been an iconic Turkish treat, due to its unique and delicious pistachio taste. Now you can discover and enjoy what Turks have known for decades: Damak chocolate with pistachios is a seductive combination of complex flavors from fine chocolate and flavorful, premium pistachios, making it a delightful Turkish treat to share with a loved one – or alone!
Seductive Nestle Damak chocolate available at Walgreens
Turkish Coffee
There’s regular coffee, and then there’s Turkish coffee, which is such a sophisticated staple of Turkish culture that it’s become part of the traditional Turkish wedding custom. Turkish coffee is prepared by roasting, grinding, and then simmering coffee beans in a pot or “cezve” (a pot designed to prepare Turkish coffee). A cup of Turkish coffee makes a perfect complement to your Damak chocolate.
How to prepare Turkish coffee in a cezve (Photo: Liz Clayton)
Tulips
People often think that tulips originated in Holland but many will be surprised to learn that tulips are actually native to Central Asia and Turkey! Tulips were brought to Holland in the 16th century and quickly became one of the most popular flowers in the world. While Holland produces the majority of today’s tulips, many cultivated varieties of tulips were grown in Turkey before being introduced to the rest of Europe.
Tulip Festival Image from Daily Sabah
Turkish Towels
Get the feeling of relaxing on the Turkish Riviera without leaving home with a beautiful Turkish Towel. Also known as pestemals, Turkish Towels are widely used in Turkish baths (Hammams) because they are wonderfully soft, highly absorbent and fast-drying. They come in an assortment of different colors and sizes, roll up easily and are perfect for the park, the beach or even your own bathroom.
Turkish towels from Turkish T
So, whether you’re sipping a Turkish coffee on the patio in the morning, or treating yourself to a Damak chocolate in the evening, bringing home a taste of Turkey without a passport is easier than ever!
This post has been written as part of the #DiscoverDamak campaign, sponsored by Nestlé Damak at Walgreens.