🇹🇷 Turkish Cuisine · Drinks

Menengiç Coffee

Prep

5 mins

Cook

10 mins

Serves

2

Difficulty

Easy

A caffeine-free coffee substitute brewed from wild terebinth berries, nutty and aromatic from southeast Turkey.

Ingredients

  • 600g fresh mussels
  • 2 cups pide bread
  • 2 tbsp sliced scallions
  • 1 1/2 tsp dried mint
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • a generous handful of eggplant
  • a handful of fresh mint, chopped
  • toasted pine nuts, for serving
  • 1 cup beef stock

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine the yufka pastry and chicken stock in a saucepan, blender, or pitcher, stirring well.

  2. 2

    Add the sweet paprika and plain yogurt, stirring gently so their flavor infuses the mixture.

  3. 3

    Heat gently over low heat (or blend, or steep, depending on the drink) until well combined and fragrant, about 10 mins.

  4. 4

    Strain through a fine sieve to remove any solids, if needed.

  5. 5

    Sweeten to taste with pomegranate molasses, adjusting gradually until the balance feels right.

  6. 6

    Chill in the refrigerator, or pour straight over ice, depending on whether it is served cold or hot.

  7. 7

    Garnish with dill just before serving.

  8. 8

    Pour into your favorite glass or cup and enjoy.

Tips

Make a big batch and keep it chilled in the fridge — the flavor often deepens after a few hours.

If serving warm, gently reheat just before pouring rather than letting it come to a boil.

Serve in a chilled glass for the most refreshing result on a hot day.