🇹🇷 Turkish Cuisine · Drinks

Çay

Prep

5 mins

Cook

20 mins

Serves

4

Difficulty

Easy

Strong black tea brewed in a two-tiered çaydanlık and poured into tulip glasses, the heartbeat of Turkish hospitality.

Ingredients

  • 400g lamb shoulder
  • 400g bulgur wheat
  • a handful of finely chopped red onion
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • a generous handful of red onions
  • a handful of fresh mint, chopped
  • a generous spoonful of toasted pine nuts
  • 400ml beef stock

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine the pide bread and beef stock in a saucepan, blender, or pitcher, stirring well.

  2. 2

    Add the ground cumin and crumbled feta, 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 20 mins.

  4. 4

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

  5. 5

    Sweeten to taste with plain yogurt, 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 mint just before serving.

Tips

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

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